DeSantis ends rivalry with Newsom, extends support to struggling blue state governor.

Gov Ron DeSantis urges unity to assist fellow Americans.

DeSantis ends rivalry with Newsom, extends support to struggling blue state governor.
DeSantis ends rivalry with Newsom, extends support to struggling blue state governor.

Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida has offered assistance to Gov. Gavin Newsom of California as he battles several fires that have been ravaging Los Angeles County this week.

DeSantis posted on X on Wednesday morning, expressing that our prayers are with those affected by the devastating fires in Southern California. In times of crisis, we must unite to assist our fellow Americans in any way possible.

Florida has offered assistance to California in responding to fires and rebuilding devastated communities, he stated.

DeSantis has offered support to California after leading his state through Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene last year. Despite frequent barbs exchanged between the two governors, particularly regarding Florida's openness during the pandemic and California's strict lockdown measures, DeSantis has extended a helping hand to his counterpart.

left-right split of Govs. Newsom and DeSantis
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, right, has pledged disaster relief to California Gov. Gavin Newsom as the Golden State faces devastating wildfires. (Getty Images / File)

This week, four fires are burning in Los Angeles County, including those in Pacific Palisades and Sylmar neighborhoods of Los Angeles, as well as near Pasadena. Newsom declared a state of emergency after the Pacific Palisades fire rapidly intensified on Tuesday.

"The windstorm is highly dangerous and poses extreme fire risk, and we are not out of the woods yet. We have already seen the destructive impacts of this fire in Pacific Palisades, which grew rapidly in minutes. Our gratitude goes to the expert firefighters and first responders who quickly jumped into action to fight this dangerous fire. If you are in Southern California, please pay attention to weather reports and follow any guidance from emergency officials."

Firefighter with hose as house ablaze behind him
A firefighter battles the Palisades Fire as it burns a structure in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

The devastating fires have destroyed mansions and homes, including those of Hollywood stars such as James Woods, resulting in the evacuation of at least 30,000 residents.

Our house in the hills is on fire and all the smoke detectors are going off, sending alerts to our iPhones. I can't believe how quickly our beautiful little home has been destroyed. It feels like losing a family member.

air tanker fighting wildfire in California
An airtanker made a drop on the Palisades Fire. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Biden has been in touch with California leaders frequently and has announced that FEMA aid has been approved to aid in firefighting efforts.

Biden posted on X on Tuesday evening that he is frequently receiving updates on the wildfires in west Los Angeles and has offered federal assistance to help suppress the Pacific Palisades fire. Earlier tonight, FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support affected areas and reimburse the state of California for immediate firefighting costs. His Administration will do everything it can to support the response.

by Emma Colton

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