Hollywood actor Mel Gibson has joined the movement to recall California Governor Gavin Newsom, blaming him for the "gross mismanagement" of the Palisades and Eaton fires that caused severe damage in Southern California. Speaking at a press conference organized by Saving California in Altadena, Gibson criticized both Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for failing to take preventive action.
Mel Gibson Lost His Home in the Palisades Fire
The Palisades Fire, which broke out on January 7, destroyed thousands of homes, including Gibson's. A total of 23,448 acres burned, and 6,833 businesses and homes were destroyed. The Eaton Fire burned 14,021 acres in Altadena and caused significant damage, destroying 9,418 structures. According to Cal Fire, both fires claimed the lives of 29 people.
Mel Gibson Calls for Federal Investigation
Gibson emphasized the need for a federal investigation if California is to receive federal aid for wildfire recovery. He questioned whether the fires were a result of incompetence, negligence, or complacency on the part of state officials.
Why Mel Gibson is Staying in California
Despite many celebrities leaving California due to high taxes, crime, and strict regulations, Gibson explained in a January interview on Hannity why he chose to stay.
“A lot of people have left, and I don’t blame them. Even people who were liberal, it didn’t suit them anymore. But if everybody leaves, what’s going to happen?” he said.
Mel Gibson’s Role as Hollywood Ambassador Under Trump
Recently appointed as a special envoy to Hollywood by former President Donald Trump, Gibson is focused on fixing the state’s declining entertainment industry. He argues that Newsom’s tax incentives are insufficient and that excessive regulations are pushing filmmakers out of California.
Gibson, along with fellow Hollywood ambassadors Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, plans to meet and discuss ways to revitalize the industry. He believes Trump’s leadership will yield quick results.
“Newsom gave some tax incentives, but maybe not enough because it’s still not working. Other things offset that,” Gibson told Hannity earlier this year.
Final Thoughts
Mel Gibson remains vocal in his criticism of Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of California’s crisis. His involvement in the recall effort is expected to bring more attention to the state’s ongoing wildfire issues and political turmoil. Whether or not the recall will succeed remains to be seen, but Gibson has made it clear that he will continue to fight for change in California.