California has once again been devastated by destructive wildfires, leaving communities in Los Angeles and surrounding areas in ruins. Homes, schools, and businesses have been reduced to ashes, and countless lives have been upended. What remains is a trail of devastation—a stark reminder of how leadership failure has compounded the impact of these tragedies.

Governor Gavin Newsom has had over a decade in office—five years as governor and eight as lieutenant governor—to address California’s wildfire crisis. Yet, despite repeated disasters, the necessary preventive measures remain woefully inadequate. Similarly, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass recently cut over $17 million in funding from the fire department, leaving the city ill-equipped to handle such emergencies. Shockingly, even basic firefighting resources like hydrants lacked sufficient water to combat the flames.

This negligence is unacceptable. Wildfires in California are not an unexpected event—they are an annual reality. Failing to fund fire prevention efforts, improve infrastructure, and allocate proper resources is a dereliction of duty that costs lives, homes, and livelihoods. Instead of shedding tears and offering prayers after the damage is done, it’s time for proactive leadership.

California deserves better. Those in power—whether the governor, the mayor, or any official responsible for preventing and containing these disasters—must be held accountable. It’s not enough to show up after the fact; bold, decisive action is required to ensure communities are protected, resources are adequate,and such tragedies are minimized in the future.

The time for complacency is over. California needs leaders who will act decisively to prioritize the safety and well-being of its people.

@CASenReps @FresnoCountyGOP @MaderaGOP 

#FireGavinNewsom #FireKarenBass