FEMA declines Newsom's meeting request during quiet effort to secure funding for L.A. fires

Governor Gavin Newsom maintained a subdued presence during his recent trip to Washington, D.C., meeting with several lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Friday to advocate for billions in federal recovery funds following the Los Angeles wildfires. Unlike his recent high-profile appearances at the U.N. climate summit in Brazil and the New York Times DealBook Summit, Newsoms visit to the nations capital was noticeably low-key.

The governors office shared minimal details about the schedule prior to his arrival, later confirming meetings with five lawmakers, including members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, Senator Alex Padilla (D-Los Angeles), and Representative Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denied Newsoms request for a meeting, highlighting ongoing tension with the Trump administration over Californias $33.9 billion request for long-term disaster funding nearly a year after the devastating fires.

Newsom emphasized that his purpose in Washington was to argue for recovery support broadly, not solely for California, citing other states affected by disasters, such as Texas and North Carolina. We are reaching the point where action is needed, which is why we are intensifying our efforts, he stated after a meeting with Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. He underscored the importance of funding for fire victims, stating, People should not be revictimized through politics. Being there for those in need is foundational.

Newsom did not clarify if he requested a meeting with the White House, and the White House did not respond to inquiries. He described his discussions with lawmakers as productive and marked by remarkable graciousness. Other meetings included Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Representative Adriano Espaillat (D-New York).

Urgent Need for Disaster Aid

Newsom is urging the administration to formally request $33.9 billion from Congress to rebuild homes, schools, utilities, and other infrastructure destroyed in the January fires. He noted bipartisan support for long-term recovery funding, but criticized the lack of progress from the federal government since his February request, which initially sought nearly $40 billion, later reduced based on funds already disbursed.

In January, the President promised on the tarmac at LAX that he would take care of it, but survivors are still waiting, Newsom said. The wildfires destroyed thousands of structures, displacing families and businesses. In the first six months following the fires, California received reimbursement for response costs and over $3 billion in individual and small-business aid.

The governors trip coincides with congressional inquiries into Californias handling of the Palisades fire and the distribution of disaster relief funds, with lawmakers requesting extensive records from multiple agencies. Newsom expressed support for transparency, stating his administration has embraced openness because Californians deserve nothing less.

Legal Distraction

Newsom has largely stayed out of the spotlight following the arrest of his former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, on federal corruption charges. He described the indictment as a real surprise and shock and confirmed that he was not involved or interviewed by the Department of Justice. He has not been accused of any wrongdoing.

Political Commentary

At the DealBook Summit, Newsom addressed internal Democratic Party challenges, criticizing its recent performance and urging a more inclusive economic vision. We need to be more culturally normal and less judgmental, he said, emphasizing the need for the party to create policies that engage and include people in shaping the future economy.

Author: Gavin Porter