L.A. Times Columnist Blames Climate Change for Fires, Ignores Local Failures

By American Faith – January 16, 2025

L.A. Times columnist Sammy Roth has attributed the recent Palisades Fire and other devastating wildfires in Los Angeles to climate change, framing the issue as a result of fossil fuel dependence and global warming. In his column titled “Los Angeles is a climate disaster. The fires will change nothing,” Roth called for systemic changes, such as reducing fossil fuel use, supporting green businesses, and prioritizing climate action in public policy and personal decisions.

Roth’s focus on climate change as the sole culprit for the fires has drawn criticism for overlooking significant local mismanagement and failures in wildfire preparedness. Critics point to inadequate brush clearance, unfilled reservoirs, insufficient firefighter pre-deployment, and poor communication with residents and schools during evacuations as key factors that exacerbated the damage.

Political Accountability Lacking Amid Wildfire Response

While Roth blames climate change for the fires, he has not addressed the failures of Los Angeles’ political leadership. Mayor Karen Bass, who was out of the country on a diplomatic trip during the fires, has faced scrutiny for her absence during the crisis. Reports indicate that city officials had advance warning about adverse wind conditions that could trigger fires, yet critical steps to mitigate risk were not taken.

In contrast, billionaire developer and former mayoral candidate Rick Caruso had taken proactive measures to protect his Palisades Village mall, using fire-resistant materials and hiring private firefighters to safeguard his property. Caruso, who lost the 2022 mayoral race to Bass, was criticized by Roth at the time for allegedly lacking a “climate plan.” However, Caruso’s approach to wildfire preparedness has proven effective compared to the city’s broader failures under Bass’s leadership.

Climate Narrative Over Local Solutions?

Roth’s column reflects a broader trend of framing climate change as the central issue while neglecting immediate and actionable solutions to prevent wildfire devastation. Critics argue that a singular focus on global climate policy can deflect accountability for local mismanagement and preparedness. Additionally, Roth’s past accusations against white drivers in Los Angeles for allegedly polluting air in minority neighborhoods further underscore his divisive rhetoric.

As Los Angeles grapples with recurring wildfires, questions remain about whether the city’s leadership will prioritize practical solutions, such as improved infrastructure and better emergency response, over sweeping climate narratives that fail to address immediate risks.

American Faith