Part 4/9:
Conservative commentators have not hesitated to label Newsom's leadership as hypocritical, pointing to a series of missteps that they argue have exacerbated the situation. From delaying state emergency declarations to failing to mobilize resources in anticipation of the wildfires, critics allege that both Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have demonstrated a lack of competent management.
The question of leadership accountability became particularly salient when House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested that any federal disaster aid could involve conditions, including a call for changes in leadership in California. This sentiment was echoed by commentators who suggested that perhaps taxpayer assistance should hinge upon the removal of underperforming officials like Newsom and Bass.