Fire Fury: Celebs Blame Gov. Newsom for California Wildfires

Southern California is burning, and celebrities are pointing fingers at Governor Gavin Newsom. The Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, and Kenneth fires have left a trail of destruction, claiming lives and homes, including those of some famous faces. With at least 10 deaths and nearly 180, 000 evacuees, the fires have caused an estimated $150 billion in damage. President-elect Donald Trump sparked controversy by blaming Newsom on his Truth Social platform, accusing him of not signing a water restoration declaration. Newsom's spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, denied the existence of such a document, emphasizing the governor's focus on protecting people and supporting firefighters. Celebrities have joined the chorus of criticism. Mel Gibson, during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, accused Newsom of failing to manage the forests and jokingly suggested the governor’s hair gel budget was more important. Rogan agreed, saying Newsom had ruined the state. Actor James Woods, who lost his home, took to social media to blame Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for the fires. He called for their recall, criticizing their handling of water management and fire prevention. Fitness expert Jillian Michaels, who lost her home in a 2018 fire, also criticized Newsom, saying the state’s response to the current crisis was incompetent. Patricia Heaton blamed California's leadership for the devastation, criticizing drug use, homelessness, and crime. Former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick and actor Sara Foster added their voices, calling for Newsom and Bass to resign. Their posts highlighted concerns about tax money being misused and the state's lack of preparedness.