Former Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva and ex-District Attorney Steve Cooley have spoken out against what they describe as the disastrous impact of progressive policies on the city’s wildfire response. They argue that the city’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has hindered essential emergency services, leading to widespread destruction and chaos.
According to Villanueva, who served as sheriff from 2018 to 2022, the city’s emergency response capabilities have been severely undermined by a combination of defunding of the fire department, depleted resources, and staff shortages. "The real disaster is not the fires, it’s this ideology," Villanueva stated, pointing to the loss of more than 3,000 law enforcement officers since 2020.
Cooley echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the fire department should focus on firefighting rather than social policies. He criticized the administration for prioritizing DEI over operational efficiency, arguing that such policies have led to delays and inadequate responses to the ongoing wildfires.
The fires, which have destroyed thousands of structures and displaced over 88,000 residents, have also resulted in rampant looting. Reports indicate that at least 40 suspects have been arrested for looting properties, with some individuals even posing as firefighters to gain access to homes and businesses.
The situation has sparked widespread criticism of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who was overseas when the fires broke out. Critics argue that her administration’s budget cuts to the fire department have exacerbated the crisis. Meanwhile, the state’s top firefighter, Joe Tyler, has faced scrutiny for his limited public appearances and lack of on-the-ground presence.
Efforts to combat the blazes have seen the deployment of over 7,500 firefighters, National Guard troops, and emergency responders from neighboring states. Despite this, frontline responders are reportedly overwhelmed, working 24-hour shifts without relief, as departments grapple with staff shortages caused by budget cuts.
Villanueva and other critics have called for a reassessment of city policies, urging a shift away from political agendas and back to practical solutions that prioritize public safety. "Technical competence and meritocracy must take precedence," he stated.
As the fires continue to rage, the debate over the balance between progressive policies and effective governance remains a contentious issue among city officials and residents alike.
