Months before recent wildfires ravaged parts of Los Angeles, President-elect Donald Trump highlighted California’s wildfire and water management issues during an October interview with Joe Rogan. Trump criticized California’s water policies, particularly the diversion of water to protect the smelt fish, suggesting it could be better used for farmers and firefighting. He also blamed Governor Gavin Newsom for blocking a proposed federal water restoration program. Trump has long advocated for better forest management, including clearing dead trees and underbrush to prevent fires. While some have praised his warnings, others question the effectiveness of his proposed solutions in addressing California’s persistent wildfire challenges. The ongoing fires have reignited public debate on these issues.