Former President Donald Trump has criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for what he describes as poor water management policies amidst the devastating wildfires sweeping through Southern California. Trump claims Newsom prioritized protecting the endangered delta smelt—a small fish species native to California—over allocating water to drought-stricken areas now engulfed by flames. Referring to the smelt as a “worthless fish,” Trump alleged on Truth Social that the governor’s decisions have exacerbated the wildfire crisis.
This is not the first time Trump has clashed with Newsom over water policies. During his presidency, Trump issued federal directives to redirect northern California’s water southward for agricultural and emergency use, which Newsom legally challenged and limited. Trump has since accused Newsom of endangering Californians to adhere to environmental policies that he views as ineffective.
Environmental experts counter that while water management plays a role in wildfire mitigation, factors such as dry conditions, strong winds, and urban expansion into wildland areas are larger contributors. The Pacific Palisades Fire, the largest among several raging across Los Angeles County, remains 0% contained, with at least 70,000 residents evacuated.
Trump’s remarks have reignited the debate over balancing environmental conservation with disaster preparedness, as communities grapple with the immediate and long-term impacts of wildfires on lives and infrastructure.
