LA Fire Chief and Mayor Clash Over Resources During Historic Wildfire

Kristin Crowley criticizes budget cuts and water shortages as Los Angeles battles the most destructive wildfire in its history, burning over 5,000 structures.

• Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley has publicly criticized city budget cuts, claiming they have hindered firefighting efforts during the Pacific Palisades wildfire.
• The wildfire has destroyed more than 5,000 structures, making it the most destructive in the city's history, with 20% of hydrants running dry during the response.
• Mayor Karen Bass has downplayed the public dispute, stating that differences with Crowley will be resolved privately while focusing on addressing the ongoing crisis.
• Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an investigation into the water shortages, as the city’s water system struggled to meet demand during the wildfire.
• Crowley, the first female and openly gay fire chief of Los Angeles, has faced criticism from some conservative commentators for her diversity efforts, though no evidence links these initiatives to operational challenges.

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