In a call for collaboration, California's governor emphasizes the need for bipartisan effort in addressing the wildfire crisis, while tensions with Trump continue to simmer.
California Governor Invites Trump to Witness Wildfire Devastation

California Governor Invites Trump to Witness Wildfire Devastation
Gavin Newsom urges President-elect Trump to see the impact of wildfires firsthand and promote unity amidst disaster recovery efforts.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly extended an invitation to President-elect Donald Trump, suggesting he visit the Golden State to get a firsthand look at the devastation wrought by ongoing wildfires. In a heartfelt open letter made public on Friday, Newsom implored Trump to travel to Los Angeles County, which has been particularly hard-hit, and to engage with local residents who have been displaced by the fires.
In his message, Newsom stated: ".@realDonaldTrump, as you prepare to assume the presidency once more, I invite you to come to California. The hundreds of thousands of Americans – displaced from their homes and fearful for the future – deserve to see us all working together in their best interests, not..."
This overture comes amid rising tensions between the two leaders, punctuated by Trump's recent criticisms of Newsom's wildfire management tactics. Nevertheless, the governor underscored the necessity of unity during such critical times, insisting that “we must not politicize human tragedy or spread disinformation from the sidelines.” He highlighted that hundreds of thousands of Americans affected by the fires deserve a collective effort for recovery and rebuilding.
Newsom’s letter also urged Trump to take time to express gratitude to the firefighters and first responders bravely battling the flames. He stated, “As you prepare to assume the presidency once more, I invite you to come to California again – to meet with the Americans affected by these fires, see the devastation firsthand, and join me and others in thanking the heroic firefighters.”
In contrast, Trump’s response on Truth Social was pointed and dismissive, declaring, “One of the best and most beautiful parts of the United States of America is burning down to the ground. It’s ashes, and Gavin Newscum should resign. This is all his fault!!!” This exchange illustrates the longstanding friction between the two leaders. In 2019, Trump chastised Newsom’s wildfire prevention strategies, posting on Twitter about California's recurring issues and the governor's reliance on federal assistance.
While the political rivalry remains evident, Newsom’s letter conveys a desire for cooperative action in addressing the wildfire crisis at a time when California is experiencing one of its most severe wildfire seasons in recent memory. Whether Trump accepts the invitation could either foster bipartisan collaboration or exacerbate existing political divides in their ongoing contentious relationship.
In his message, Newsom stated: ".@realDonaldTrump, as you prepare to assume the presidency once more, I invite you to come to California. The hundreds of thousands of Americans – displaced from their homes and fearful for the future – deserve to see us all working together in their best interests, not..."
This overture comes amid rising tensions between the two leaders, punctuated by Trump's recent criticisms of Newsom's wildfire management tactics. Nevertheless, the governor underscored the necessity of unity during such critical times, insisting that “we must not politicize human tragedy or spread disinformation from the sidelines.” He highlighted that hundreds of thousands of Americans affected by the fires deserve a collective effort for recovery and rebuilding.
Newsom’s letter also urged Trump to take time to express gratitude to the firefighters and first responders bravely battling the flames. He stated, “As you prepare to assume the presidency once more, I invite you to come to California again – to meet with the Americans affected by these fires, see the devastation firsthand, and join me and others in thanking the heroic firefighters.”
In contrast, Trump’s response on Truth Social was pointed and dismissive, declaring, “One of the best and most beautiful parts of the United States of America is burning down to the ground. It’s ashes, and Gavin Newscum should resign. This is all his fault!!!” This exchange illustrates the longstanding friction between the two leaders. In 2019, Trump chastised Newsom’s wildfire prevention strategies, posting on Twitter about California's recurring issues and the governor's reliance on federal assistance.
While the political rivalry remains evident, Newsom’s letter conveys a desire for cooperative action in addressing the wildfire crisis at a time when California is experiencing one of its most severe wildfire seasons in recent memory. Whether Trump accepts the invitation could either foster bipartisan collaboration or exacerbate existing political divides in their ongoing contentious relationship.