As Los Angeles grapples with devastating wildfires, California lawmakers prioritize allocating $25 million to fight anticipated legal battles with the incoming Trump administration.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

Amid raging wildfires that have consumed over 10,000 structures in Los Angeles, California’s Democratic-controlled Assembly convened a special legislative session to allocate $25 million to the state’s Department of Justice. The funds are intended to bolster legal defenses against policies anticipated under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.

The session follows Governor Gavin Newsom’s November announcement of a special session to prepare for what he called “unlawful actions” by the Trump administration. Newsom emphasized the need to protect California’s progressive values, including climate change initiatives, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ protections.

“California is ready to fight,” Newsom declared in a statement. “Whether it be our fundamental civil rights, reproductive freedom, or climate action—we refuse to turn back the clock and allow our values and laws to be attacked.”

New: California lawmakers in the Assembly have gaveled into the special legislative session to help the state prepare for legal battles with the incoming Trump administration.

Democrats moved forward with the bill to get $25m to CADOJ—-will have budget hearing Monday.

— Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA) January 9, 2025

The decision to prioritize legal preparations over addressing the ongoing wildfire crisis has sparked criticism. Many have questioned the state’s focus as Los Angeles battles a catastrophic inferno fueled by dry conditions and high winds. Critics blame the crisis on Governor Newsom’s policies, including resource allocations and infrastructure decisions.

Despite the controversy, lawmakers pressed forward. “Democrats moved forward with the bill to get $25 million to [the California Department of Justice (CADOJ)]—will have a budget hearing Monday,” tweeted Ashley Zavala, a reporter covering the session.

The funds will support the state’s ability to challenge federal policies in court. Newsom’s office outlined urgent priorities, including defending California’s climate policies, sanctuary state laws, and protections for reproductive and LGBTQ+ rights.

Newsom’s announcement last November followed President Trump’s landslide victory over Kamala Harris. “[Trump] is a threat to California’s climate change program, illegal immigrant population, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights,” Newsom said at the time, highlighting the need for proactive measures.

Critics argue the state’s focus is misplaced given the current wildfire crisis. However, Newsom maintains that the funding is necessary to uphold California’s progressive agenda against federal encroachment.

As firefighters battle relentless flames in Los Angeles, the political and environmental challenges facing California remain as divisive as ever. The decision to allocate funds for legal battles instead of immediate disaster relief reflects a broader clash of priorities in the Golden State.