The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles could ignite a significant cultural and political shift in California, according to historian Victor Davis Hanson. Hanson, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, believes the state's widely criticized response to the disaster, including issues with resource allocation and infrastructure preparedness, may lead to a "reawakening" among residents, particularly wealthy, left-leaning individuals directly impacted by the fires.
Hanson points out the irony of affluent, traditionally liberal homeowners in areas like Pacific Palisades bearing the brunt of the destruction. He suggests that experiencing the consequences of policies they've supported, such as environmental regulations that may have hampered fire prevention efforts, could lead to a change in their political perspectives. The extensive damage, estimated to reach hundreds of billions of dollars, combined with the anticipated bureaucratic hurdles of rebuilding, is expected to fuel frustration and potentially redirect political allegiances.
The historian also highlighted the criticism directed at California's leadership, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, for their handling of the crisis. Newsom's recent executive order to expedite rebuilding efforts by suspending certain regulations has been met with skepticism, with some questioning why such measures weren't in place before the disaster. Hanson suggests that the combination of these factors could diminish the national influence of California politicians.
The ongoing "California exodus," with residents moving to states perceived as having lower taxes, more affordable housing, and less stringent business regulations, further complicates the situation. Hanson believes this trend, coupled with the wildfire fallout, presents an opportunity for a politically astute Republican candidate to capitalize on the growing discontent. However, he notes that the Republican Party has yet to effectively address the concerns of this potentially shifting demographic.
Hanson concludes that the wildfires could act as a catalyst for change, potentially disrupting the state's political landscape and leading to a greater diversity of voices and perspectives.
