Photo: MANDEL NGAN / AFP / Getty Images
Nearly a year after devastating wildfires swept through Southern California, Governor Gavin Newsom is urging for more federal aid to support ongoing recovery efforts.
The fires, which began in January 2025, claimed 31 lives and destroyed thousands of homes in the Los Angeles area, particularly affecting the Altadena and Palisades communities. Despite pre-positioned resources and the efforts of local, state, and federal firefighters, the firestorms resulted in massive urban damage.
In response, California has been working to rebuild and support affected communities. Governor Newsom has emphasized the importance of meeting local needs, honoring victims, and helping survivors heal. The state has allocated significant resources to accelerate rebuilding, support mental health, and reopen businesses. As of now, over 2,600 rebuilding permits have been issued, with thousands more under review, marking a significant improvement over past recovery efforts.
However, the need for federal support remains critical. Governor Newsom has criticized President Donald Trump for not submitting a formal request to Congress for $33.9 billion in federal disaster aid. Newsom has also expressed frustration with the lack of engagement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the impact of federal immigration policies on the recovery process.
As California continues to push for federal assistance, the state remains committed to its recovery efforts. Governor Newsom has taken measures to streamline rebuilding processes, provide tax and mortgage relief, and protect survivors from price gouging and speculators.