One year after the Palisades fire: Californians still can’t trust Newsom
By Easton Martin | January 11, 2026
One year after the Palisades fire swept through Los Angeles, leaving destruction and displacement in its wake, the response from state leadership has rightly drawn scrutiny.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s management of the disaster and its aftermath has raised questions about preparedness, coordination, and accountability, particularly as residents continue to face the slow pace of rebuilding and recovery.
The warning signs preceding the fire were clear, and opportunities to mitigate risk were missed. State agencies had knowledge of extreme fire conditions, yet preventive measures were inconsistent, leaving families and homes vulnerable. While emergency support was eventually mobilized, the response was largely reactive.
The perception of detachment from the communities most affected has further compounded frustration for many California residents.
During the anniversary of the fire, residents gathered to express their concerns and demand accountability, yet state leadership, including Governor Newsom, was notably absent.
This absence has reinforced the sense that political considerations have taken priority over direct engagement with the people enduring the consequences of the disaster.
A year after the fire, the ongoing challenges faced by homeowners illustrate the lasting impact of decisions made before and during the emergency. The expectation for government leadership in the face of predictable disasters is not limited to reactive measures but includes proactive planning, and yet Newsom and his administration have fallen flat.
