Grant Cardone Blasts California Leadership Over Wildfire Mismanagement: “Hold Yourselves Accountable”
Grant Cardone, the renowned real estate mogul with properties spanning the United States, has publicly criticized California’s Democratic leadership for their failure to prevent devastating wildfires. Cardone’s frustration comes after his Malibu home succumbed to flames during the recent spate of wildfires ravaging the state.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Cardone pulled no punches:
“You cut budgets when you should have increased them. You said you were ready, but you weren’t. You were wrong on both counts. Hold yourselves accountable and step down.”
Cardone has urged Californians to take action, stating, “Revolt and protest. Demand that those in power are held accountable.”
The business leader’s home on Carbon Beach—one of the few remaining structures in the area—was among the victims of five massive wildfires that have scorched over 29,000 acres and claimed at least five lives as of early Thursday, according to Cal Fire.
Wildfire Response Sparks Political Debate
While California Governor Gavin Newsom has been on-site assessing the disaster response, Cardone echoed recent calls by President-elect Donald Trump for Newsom’s immediate resignation. Trump cited what he referred to as the governor’s “gross incompetence.”
Cardone extended his criticisms to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, calling for her resignation as well. Speaking on Fox Business’ “Mornings with Maria”, he said:
“I’ve lived in that area for 35 years, and for years I’ve warned it’s a tinderbox waiting to ignite. California has faced hundreds of billions of dollars in damages—much of which could have been prevented if the state had prioritized effectively.”
Cardone also accused the state government of profiting from emergencies:
“This is a corrupted government that relies on federal aid during disasters. They make more money in emergencies than they do by planning responsibly. If California hadn’t wasted $12 billion on high-speed rail projects going to nowhere, they could have buried electrical lines and ensured water pressure for hydrants.”
A State Mismanaged for Decades
Cardone further criticized California’s leadership for prioritizing fringe agendas over essential infrastructure and public safety:
“For the past 25 years, California has catered to fringe group agendas instead of addressing the needs of its people. Maybe this will be the wake-up call Californians need to elect conservative, common-sense leaders who can manage budgets and protect citizens.”
The Costliest Wildfire Disaster in U.S. History?
Initial estimates reported by FOX Weather suggest the damage from these wildfires could reach $52 billion, potentially making it the most expensive wildfire event in U.S. history.
Despite the massive destruction, Los Angeles’ fiscal priorities remain questionable. The city’s 2023-2024 budget allocated $837 million to the Los Angeles Fire Department—a mere 65% of the $1.3 billion allocated to homelessness programs. Yet, an analysis by L.A.’s city comptroller found that half of the homeless budget went unspent last year.
Cardone didn’t hold back his skepticism:
“Elon Musk is preparing for Mars, but we can’t get water pressure to fire hydrants? California is on the Pacific—water is not the problem. This isn’t about climate change; it’s about mismanagement and misplaced priorities.”
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