In the face of the raging fires devastating Los Angeles, it is obvious that Gov. Gavin Newsom’s (D-Calif. ) leadership has fallen short, while Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-Fla. ) has demonstrated what true leadership looks like in times of crisis.
Advertisement
The fire now ravaging Los Angeles County have scorched over 30, 000 hectares, reduced 2, 000 houses to dust, and taken at least five life. At present, the fire haven’t been contained, and rescuers have run out of water. The fires are evidence of destructive stupidity and shortsightedness from the bottom down, and the flames have destroyed the homes and lives of people in the Pacific Palisades, Sylmar, and Pasadena.
In response, Newsom’s administration efforts have been little more than an training in displacement. On Wednesday, he held a combined presentation with President Joe Biden and appeared on regional media to tell the people that he was on top of the condition. But in a critical time during a CNN meeting, Newsom’s words came across as a symbol of Democrat incompetence rather than powerful leadership.  ,
As the blaze raged behind him, CNN’s Anderson Cooper asked,” What is the position with the water, certainly, in the Palisades”? referring to information that fire sprinklers had run out of water. Instead of offering a solution, Newsom shifted responsibility for addressing the issue to regional officials. ” The local people are trying to find that out”, he said.
Connected:  , WATCH: This Video Destroys Gavin Newsom’s National Interests
This displacement of accountability is concerning, especially given California’s long-standing struggles with fire prevention and its inadequate water storage facilities. Think if DeSantis said something like that during his storms answer.
Advertisement
DeSantis has shown what real authority in a turmoil looks like during the wildfires in California. Despite the ongoing tensions between the two governors — especially over their varied approaches to the pandemic — DeSantis has extended an olive tree to California, offering support in the midst of these destructive fires.  ,
” Our prayers are with everyone affected by the horrific fires in Southern California”, DeSantis wrote in a post on X. ” When disaster strikes, we must come together to help our fellow Americans in any way we can. The state of Florida has offered help to assist the people of California in responding to these fires and in rebuilding communities that have been devastated”.
This offer of assistance follows DeSantis ‘ successful handling of both Hurricanes Milton and Helene in Florida last year. His response to these natural disasters has earned him praise for his decisive and effective leadership. In contrast, Newsom has failed to live up to similar expectations, despite the frequent crises his state faces.
Newsom did declare a state of emergency as the Pacific Palisades fire spread, and he warned of a “highly dangerous windstorm” that could further fuel the fires. But his leadership seems reactive at best, with residents— including high-profile figures like actor James Woods, who lost his home — forced to fend for themselves.  ,
Advertisement
At least 30, 000 people have been evacuated, and many more remain at risk. President Biden has stayed in frequent communication with California leaders and approved FEMA aid, but the way FEMA dropped the ball with hurricane relief in North Carolina last year, expectations should be low about the help the federal government can and will provide.
As the wildfires continue to rage, DeSantis is demonstrating the kind of leadership that Newsom is failing to provide. In times of crisis, true leaders don’t just deflect responsibility — they take action, offer help, and work tirelessly to ensure that their states and citizens are protected. Unfortunately for California, that kind of leadership is coming from a governor on the other side of the country.
At least they know that help is finally on the way.