California Governor Faces Criticism Over Wildfires: 'Competent Governance Needed'

Vice President-elect JD Vance is criticizing California Governor Gavin Newsom over his handling of wildfires that have ravaged the state, claiming that "very bad decisions" were made in the lead-up to the disasters.

"We have to do a better job. We need competent, good governance," Vance said on Fox News. "Now that doesn't mean you can't criticize the governor of California for I think some very bad decisions over a very long period of time. I mean, some of these reservoirs have been dry for 15, 20 years. The fire hydrants are being reported as going dry while the firefighters are trying to put out these fires. There is a serious lack of competent governance in California and I think it's part of the reason why these fires have gotten so bad."

Vance also praised President-elect Donald Trump for his commitment to disaster relief, stating that "President Trump is committed to doing a better job when it comes to disaster relief." This includes efforts to help hurricane victims and flood victims in North Carolina, as well as fire victims in California.

In response to the criticism, Governor Newsom sent a letter to President-elect Trump inviting him to visit the affected areas and see the devastation firsthand. In his letter, Newsom wrote: "In the spirit of this great country, we must not politicize human tragedy or spread disinformation from the sidelines. Hundreds of thousands of Americans — displaced from their homes and fearful for the future — deserve to see all of us working in their best interests to ensure a fast recovery and rebuild."

The wildfires have claimed at least 16 lives and destroyed thousands of structures and landmarks in the Los Angeles area.

As of Sunday afternoon, the fire situation remains dire. The Palisades Fire, the largest in Los Angeles County history, has burned over 23,000 acres and is only 11% contained. The Eaton Fire and Hurst Fire are also still burning, although they are slightly more under control.