As devastating wildfires ravage Los Angeles, a resurfaced video of Donald Trump discussing California’s wildfire issues has gained attention, with many claiming he was vindicated. During his presidency, Trump visited Finland and discussed forest management practices, which sparked ridicule. However, in a 2024 Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Trump reiterated that California’s poor forest management and refusal to build adequate water reservoirs contributed to the current wildfire crisis.

Trump pointed out that California’s policy of routing water into the ocean to protect a small fish, the delta smelt, was wasting millions of gallons that could have been used to prevent forest fires. He also criticized the state for not allowing proper forest management, such as “raking” the forests to remove dry underbrush, which he claimed could save billions in damages each year.

Now, as wildfires continue to wreak havoc in California, Trump’s predictions appear to hold weight. With hydrants running dry and fires remaining uncontained, many are revisiting his earlier statements about water management and forest maintenance as potential solutions to the crisis.

On Truth Social, Trump has criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom and President Biden’s response, blaming them for the ongoing devastation. He called for Newsom’s resignation, stating that the destruction of one of America’s most beautiful regions was a result of poor leadership.