Say what?!?
Vice President Kamala Harris is facing widespread criticism after making a baffling and tone-deaf comment while addressing the devastating wildfires in California. During a White House briefing on Monday, Harris, along with President Biden and other officials, spoke about the federal government’s response to the ongoing disaster that has plagued Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
The fires, which have scorched more than 27,000 acres and destroyed over 10,000 structures, have left thousands of Californians homeless, including some high-profile residents in the Pacific Palisades. At least 25 people have tragically lost their lives as firefighters continue their heroic efforts to contain the flames. Amid this crisis, Harris urged Californians to be “patient,” suggesting that those under evacuation orders, many of whom have lost everything, should simply wait it out.
“A lot of residents who still have a house who have an evacuation order, I know you want to go back home, but we need to be patient,” she stated. “There’s still a ton work that firefighters, cops, FEMA, and more need to do that is for search and rescue.” While acknowledging the ongoing efforts to secure the area, Harris’ message quickly became a point of ridicule as she added, “It’s critically important that, to the extent you can find anything that gives you an ability to be patient in this extremely dangerous and unprecedented crisis, that you do.”
Her comments were met with swift backlash on social media, with critics accusing her of offering empty words instead of meaningful support. Media Research Center President Brent Bozell expressed concern, remarking, “It’s terrifying to think how Kamala would have treated the American people if this is how she treats her home state supporters.”
Others, like Jenna Ellis of the American Family Association, slammed Harris for her lack of empathy, calling the statement a “word salad.” New Jersey Assemblyman John Azzariti added, “We really dodged a bullet!” in reference to Harris’ leadership style.
The wildfires, which have been ongoing for over a week, have put California Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and other local officials under scrutiny for their perceived lack of preparedness and inadequate response. As the fires continue to rage, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Californians are looking for strong leadership, not hollow platitudes. Harris’ comments, unfortunately, have only deepened concerns about the leadership at the highest levels of government.
WATCH:
Kamala to wildfire victims: "It's critically important that, to the extent you can find anything that gives you an ability to be patient in this extremely dangerous and unprecedented crisis, that you do." pic.twitter.com/zjV2KVxr8u
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) January 14, 2025