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US Politics

Gov. Gavin Newsom faces complex politics, GOP criticism over L.A. fires

Washington Post
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76% Informative

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has been an omnipresent figure as fires have burned across the nation’s most populous county.

The vast destruction marks the first opportunity for a nationally known Democrat to demonstrate competence to solve issues directly affecting constituents’ lives.

Newsom 's success could hinge on the largesse of President-elect Donald Trump , whom he vilified as a danger to democracy.

Newsom calls for prosecuting looting as a felony in fire-evacuation zones.

One of his first executive orders was aimed at speeding up the rebuilding of fire-damaged homes and businesses.

He has also sought to confront public anger about the lack of water supplies in some areas during the height of the fire.

Newsom signed an executive order barring land developers from making unsolicited offers at below market value.

Newsom has largely avoided responding to President Trump 's insults in recent days , arguing during interviews that they are all too “familiar” That reflects the immediacy of Trump ’s Monday takeover of a federal government whose resources will be essential to any recovery.