California Governor Gavin Newsom is under fire after a video went viral, accusing him of pretending to take a call from President Joe Biden to avoid addressing a wildfire victim’s question. The incident occurred during Newsom’s visit to wildfire-stricken areas in Los Angeles on Wednesday.
The encounter
While touring the devastation caused by the wildfires, Newsom was confronted by a victim seeking answers about the ongoing crisis. Instead of responding, the governor reportedly claimed he needed to take an urgent call with President Biden regarding the disaster. Critics argue that the timing of the call appeared suspicious and accuse Newsom of using it as a tactic to dodge the victim’s inquiry.
The video capturing the interaction has since gone viral, with many on social media questioning the authenticity of the alleged conversation with the president.
Newsom’s wildfire response under scrutiny
This controversy adds to the mounting criticism of Newsom’s handling of the wildfire crisis. With fires raging in three Los Angeles regions, including the Kenneth Fire and the Palisades Fire, thousands of structures have been destroyed, and containment efforts remain challenging.
Newsom has faced backlash for perceived shortcomings in wildfire prevention measures and emergency response. The governor recently announced the deployment of 900 additional firefighters to battle the Kenneth Fire, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to combating the disaster.
Social media reaction
The viral video on X has divided public opinion. Supporters of Newsom argue that he has been actively working to address the crisis, while critics claim the incident reflects poorly on his leadership and transparency during a time of crisis.
As of now, Newsom’s office has not commented on the allegations or provided proof of the call with President Biden. Meanwhile, the wildfires continue to devastate the region, leaving many residents demanding answers and action.
The alleged incident highlights the challenges leaders face in navigating public interactions during crises. With the wildfire crisis worsening, Newsom’s response to both the natural disaster and the growing scrutiny will likely shape public perception of his leadership in the coming weeks.
