Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass acknowledged that her trip to Africa during the recent devastating wildfires was an error in judgment. She stated her commitment to regaining public trust through demonstrating effective action and addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the city. Los Angeles is currently bracing for rainstorms that could trigger mudslides in fire-scarred areas, compounding the existing disaster. Bass's absence during the initial stages of the Palisades Fire, which began on January 7th, drew considerable criticism. The mayor was in Ghana for a presidential inauguration despite pre-existing knowledge of the high fire risk. Upon her return, she faced intense questioning from reporters, which she initially avoided, further fueling public anger. A Change.org petition calling for her resignation has garnered over 170,000 signatures. The mayor's actions have also drawn criticism from prominent figures, including former mayoral opponent Rick Caruso and talk show host Bill Maher. Representative Ro Khanna even suggested Disney CEO Bob Iger as a potential mayoral candidate in 2026. Bass, however, maintains her focus on recovery and rebuilding efforts, emphasizing her commitment to helping displaced residents return home. The Palisades Fire has caused widespread destruction, impacting thousands of buildings and tragically resulting in 12 deaths. The controversy surrounding the fire's aftermath continues, with the initially proposed $500,000 compensation for recovery czar Steve Soboroff now rescinded following public outcry.
LA Mayor Karen Bass, left, and LA wildfires, right (AP)
Water is dropped by helicopter on the Palisades Fire in Mandeville Canyon, Jan. 11, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)
Rick Caruso, a Democratic candidate for Los Angeles mayor, celebrates at his primary night gathering in Los Angeles June 7, 2022, with his family behind him. (AP Photo/Alex Gallardo)
