House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated that federal assistance for California’s devastating wildfires might come with stipulations due to perceived failures in local governance.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, the Republican from Louisiana indicated that federal aid for California should have “conditions” as the state copes with ongoing fires near Los Angeles.

“Clearly, there have been issues like poor management of water resources and forests, among other problems. Ultimately, it reflects on leadership, and it seems that state and local officials have not fulfilled their responsibilities adequately,” Johnson explained to reporters at the Capitol. “This needs to be taken into account. I believe there should likely be conditions on that aid. That is my personal opinion.”

In response, Florida Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz reacted on X, stating: “That’s a mistake.”

“If you initiate this, it could create endless cycles,” he warned. “When Democrats regain control of the House, they might impose conditions on aid for Florida and Texas. Disaster Aid should remain non-partisan. I would oppose Democrats if they attempted this. The Speaker has plenty of other options to hold individuals accountable.”

The wildfires have resulted in at least 24 fatalities and have devastated thousands of homes and businesses, posing a risk to many more.

Other Republicans support conditional aid

Several influential Republicans have echoed the call for tying conditions to federal aid for California.

In a recent interview on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso from Wyoming pointed to “the policies of the liberal administration” as a factor in the extensive damage from the fires.

“I anticipate that any funding ultimately approved will come with requirements aimed at preparedness for future events because this instance was handled terribly,” Barrasso remarked.

Senator Ron Johnson from Wisconsin stated in a Newsmax interview that he would oppose aid “unless we see a significant change in how they are going to address these issues in the future… The political decisions articulated by Californian Democrats have led us to this fault. It’s on them.”

Trump criticizes Gavin Newsom

As Southern California grapples with raging wildfires, President-elect Donald Trump has directed scathing criticism towards Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.

On Wednesday, Trump suggested Newsom should resign amidst the crisis, stating on Truth Social: “One of the most beautiful areas in the United States is being reduced to ashes. Gavin Newscum (sic) should step down. This is entirely his fault!!!”

In defense, Newsom’s communications director, Izzy Gardon, countered on X, saying: “The Governor is focused on safeguarding lives, not engaging in political games, and ensuring that firefighters have all necessary resources.”

Trump and Newsom have clashed in the past during emergencies. In 2019, Trump criticized California and Newsom for frequently appealing to Washington for disaster relief.

“No more,” asserted Trump on X. “Get your act together, Governor. Other states don’t experience such high levels of burn.”

Newsom shot back on X, pointing out that Trump does not acknowledge climate change, suggesting, “you are not qualified to partake in this conversation.” His office subsequently released an extensive statement highlighting the state’s fire prevention initiatives.

Newsom’s office has yet to respond to YSL News’s inquiry regarding Johnson’s and other Republicans’ comments about conditional aid as of Monday.

Biden assures aid for California

In the middle of discussions about potential conditions and the exchange of insults between Trump and Newsom, President Joe Biden announced on Thursday that the federal government would cover costs related to wildfire responses necessary to protect lives, including debris clearance, shelter provisions, and first responder salaries for up to 180 days.

“We’re committed to ensuring you receive all the resources you require,” Biden stated. When a reporter asked if he believed California would receive the necessary assistance from the new administration, he replied, “I can’t definitively respond to that right now. I genuinely hope they will.”

Contributing: Janet Wilson, Tom Vanden Brook and Sarah D. Wire

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for YSL News. Connect with him on X @fern_cerv_.