LA Mayor rejects NY firefighters during deadly wildfires


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As Los Angeles grapples with devastating wildfires that have claimed at least 11 lives by Saturday morning, Mayor Karen Bass’s absence in Ghana for a presidential inauguration has raised eyebrows. The former Congressional Black Caucus leader and one-time potential Biden VP candidate’s return to the United States on Wednesday was met with pressing questions.

‘Do you owe citizens an apology for being absent whilst their homes were burning? Do you regret cutting the fire department’s budget?’

Her handling of the crisis since returning hasn’t helped matters. Reports from the New York Post indicate that Bass declined assistance from the New York Fire Department, despite JetBlue offering complimentary flights for the firefighters. This decision comes at a time when California Governor Gavin Newsom is actively seeking international support, particularly from Mexico.

While FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker extended the offer during the week, with transportation costs covered by JetBlue, Bass’s office has contested these claims. Her deputy mayor of communications, Zach Seidl, stated: “This is false, we have never rejected resources — LA welcomes any and all help to fight fires.”

Meanwhile, Governor Newsom has publicly expressed gratitude to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for providing firefighting assistance. On social media, he wrote: “California is deeply grateful for President @ClaudiaShein’s support as we work to suppress the Los Angeles wildfires. Our partnership and shared commitment to helping communities in need is greatly valued.”

The contrasting approaches between Bass and Newsom highlight questions about leadership priorities. While some might argue that FDNY’s urban firefighting expertise might not perfectly align with wildfire combat, the stretched resources in California suggest any additional support could prove valuable. These reinforcements could potentially free up local firefighters more experienced with wildland fires.

The situation has created internal tensions, with Bass’s fire chief publicly criticizing her over budget constraints. The optics of refusing assistance from America’s largest city while leading its second-largest metropolis have only intensified scrutiny of Bass’s decision-making during this crisis.

While Mexican firefighters prepare to join the effort, Bass’s administration continues to face mounting criticism. Her management of this emergency has left many questioning the effectiveness of her leadership approach during this critical period.