President Biden made an announcement on Thursday, stating that over the next six months, the federal government will cover 100% of the expenses associated with responding to the devastating wildfires that are wreaking havoc on neighborhoods in the greater Los Angeles area. Additionally, the president expressed his intention to seek additional funding from Congress to provide further assistance.
During a briefing on the fires, President Biden addressed the nation from the White House and emphasized that federal funding would be allocated for various critical purposes. These include the removal of debris, establishment of temporary shelters, and the provision of financial support to first responders. The president asserted that he is mobilizing all available federal resources to assist Southern California, including the deployment of 400 federal firefighters and 30 firefighting planes, along with other valuable assets.
“I made it clear to the governor and local officials that they should spare no expense,” Mr. Biden emphasized, describing the damage as “catastrophic.”
The federal government has announced an increase in disaster response coverage, providing 100% assistance for the next 180 days. This is a significant rise from the previous 75% allocation made by the president, and surpasses the 90% request made by California Governor Gavin Newsom. The ongoing wildfires have caused extensive damage and are expected to be one of the costliest disasters in California’s history. Currently, three fires continue to burn, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 179,000 individuals from their homes.
Congress might have to consider approving additional funding to support the ongoing efforts of rebuilding, with the president urging them to take action and fulfill their responsibilities.
“I am currently making an appeal to the United States Congress,” he stated.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is collaborating with displaced residents to provide them with essential necessities, including baby food. The president emphasized that the federal government is committed to assisting the affected individuals not only in their recovery but also in rebuilding their lives.
“We stand by your side,” expressed Mr. Biden. “We are here for you and we will not leave your side. To the courageous firefighters and first responders, you are true heroes.”
Top officials from the Biden administration expressed their concern for the mental health strain that residents are experiencing due to this disaster, in addition to the immediate risks to life and safety.
Vice President Kamala Harris described the damage in her Southern California neighborhood as “apocalyptic.” According to her press secretary, Harris’s home was empty when the evacuation took place.
“We’re eagerly anticipating the direction the wind takes,” she remarked.
According to the president, he has a family member residing in the affected area. This family member has reported that over 200 homes in the neighborhood have been destroyed by the fire. The president did not disclose the identity of this family member.
Multiple fires have claimed the lives of at least five people, destroying homes and causing extensive damage to vegetation and wildlife. The largest fire, known as the Palisades fire, is located along the coast, while another fire in Pasadena has also caused significant destruction.
More than 1,300 structures have been destroyed by the wildfires, and there are currently 60,000 structures at risk. These blazes are spreading rapidly in densely populated and affluent areas of Southern California.
Mr. Biden’s scheduled speech in Thermal, California earlier this week had to be canceled due to strong winds. However, he was still able to stay informed about the fires during his time in California. In order to prioritize the federal response to the blazes, the president made the decision to cancel his trip to Italy, where he intended to meet Pope Francis and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The president has given his approval for Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration, which will enable the allocation of federal resources to assist with the response efforts.
The White House announced on Wednesday that the U.S. Forest Service is deploying air tankers and 10 federal firefighting helicopters to combat the fires. In addition, the Forest Service has strategically positioned numerous fire engines to assist in the efforts. The Pentagon has also prepared firefighting personnel and resources. The fires have been exacerbated by the powerful Santa Ana winds, dry conditions, and a shortage of water. It is anticipated that the high winds will persist until Friday.
On Thursday, the president received a briefing on the current situation regarding the fires and the ongoing response to them. This update was provided to the president prior to the funeral of the late President Jimmy Carter.
When questioned about his belief in the next administration’s willingness to offer California the necessary support, the president responded earnestly, stating, “I sincerely hope they will.”
Kathryn Watson works as a politics reporter for CBS News Digital, and she is based in Washington, D.C.
