The LA Mayor was left speechless when questioned about significant budget cuts affecting the fire department, totaling millions of dollars.
LA Mayor criticized for absence during devastating California wildfires
These wildfires have caused significant damage, leading to the loss of at least five lives and the destruction of over 1,000 structures.
As firefighters work tirelessly to battle the flames, residents are left feeling frustrated and concerned about their safety.
The wildfires began on January 7, 2025, and have spread quickly across California.
Authorities issued a red flag warning, urging residents to evacuate.
However, Mayor Bass was not in the city when the fires broke out.
She left Los Angeles on January 4 as part of a presidential delegation to Ghana, only returning to the U.S. after the fires had started.
LA mayor speechless over question about cutting fire department by millions of dollars amid spreading wildfires
Sky News reporter David Blevins confronted Mayor Bass about her absence during the crisis.
He asked her if she owed an apology to the citizens whose homes were threatened while she was away.
Blevins asked her whether she regretted cutting the fire department’s budget by millions of dollars.
“Do you owe citizens an apology for being absent whilst their homes were burning?” He asked.
Despite his persistent questioning, Bass remained silent and did not respond.
“Do you regret cutting the fire department’s budget by millions of dollars madam Mayor?
“Have you nothing to say today? Have you absolutely nothing to say to the citizens today?
“Elon Musk has said you’re utterly incompetent – have you considered your position?
“Madam Mayor, have you absolutely nothing to say to the citizens who are dealing with this disaster today?
No apology for them? Do you think you should’ve visited Ghana while this unfolded back home?”
This lack of communication has angered many residents.
They feel that their mayor should be present and actively addressing the situation during such a critical time.
The public expects leaders to be accountable, especially when lives and homes are at stake.
The mayor’s silence has sparked a wave of reactions on social media.
Many users expressed their outrage, calling her behavior disgraceful.
One Twitter user stated: Not one word for the people she represents. She needs to be recalled immediately.
Another commented: The people in her city deserve at least a statement of assurance.
Critics argue that the mayor should have shown more concern for her constituents.
Some pointed out that she chose to leave the city during a time of crisis, which many see as irresponsible.
She knew what she did. There’s a lot of people like her with that kind of mindset they only care about themselves, the third user wrote.
She wasn’t silent when she cut it! Another user commented.
She needs to be in jail! Someone wrote.
The impact of budget cuts
The cuts to the fire department’s budget have raised alarms among residents.
With wildfires becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, many believe that adequate funding is crucial for fire safety.
Firefighters need resources to combat these blazes and protect communities effectively.
Reduced budgets can lead to fewer personnel and resources, making it harder to manage large-scale fires.
Public safety should be a top priority, especially in a city like Los Angeles, where wildfires are constantly threatened.
Many residents are now questioning the city’s preparedness and response plans.
They want to know how their leaders plan to ensure safety in the future.