In a tense encounter on Thursday, California Governor Gavin Newsom was confronted by Rachel Darvish, a lawyer and wildfire victim, as he was leaving the devastated Pacific Palisades area. Darvish aggressively questioned Newsom about the state’s response to the wildfire crisis, particularly focusing on the lack of water pressure in fire hydrants, which hindered firefighters’ efforts to control the flames.
In an attempt to deflect, Newsom held up his phone, claiming to be on a call with President Biden about securing aid for the victims. However, Darvish pressed him further, even asking to speak to Biden directly. Newsom awkwardly admitted he had tried to contact the President multiple times but had not been able to get through. He suggested that he was having trouble getting a signal, but Darvish didn’t let him off the hook, questioning why Biden wasn’t answering his calls.
Darvish has been a vocal critic of both Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, accusing them of being unprepared for the firestorm that was fueled by hurricane-force Santa Ana winds. She expressed frustration over the lack of foresight, mentioning how people had to flee their cars to escape the flames. Her skepticism about Newsom’s claim regarding Biden’s involvement was evident as she continued pressing him on what could have been done differently, particularly pointing out the water dripping nearby that could have helped during the fire. The exchange, captured by Sky News, highlighted the deepening tension and awkwardness between the two as Darvish demanded accountability.
