West LA Times

Comedian and Los Angeles resident Bill Maher criticized LA Mayor Karen Bass for prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives over qualifications when hiring a California Fire Chief. Maher expressed his views on "Real Time with Bill Maher" on January 18.

“Crowley’s official bio says, ‘Chief Crowley leads a diverse department, creating, supporting, and promoting a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and equity while striving to meet and exceed the expectations of the communities.’ Well, you didn’t exceed my expectations, which was that the whole city wouldn’t burn down!” Maher said.

“Am I against a lesbian being chief? Of course not. Do I think a lesbian can do the job? Of course, I do. And maybe she’s the best person for the job. Or maybe they really wanted a lesbian in that job, and she’s just the best lesbian for the job, and with essential services, that’s not good enough,” Maher added. 

A recall effort against California Governor Gavin Newsom is currently underway, with more than 165,000 signatures collected in a petition calling for the resignation of L.A. Mayor Karen Bass as of January 27. Criticism of the Democratic leaders' preparedness intensified after fire hydrants ran dry during a firestorm in Pacific Palisades. The Eaton Fire in Alta Dena has also raised questions about the state's forest management policies. Additionally, Bass faced backlash for being in Ghana when the fires broke out, despite having previously said that she would not travel internationally as mayor, according to Newsweek.

“L.A.’s mayor, Karen Bass, the Nero of American politics, was fiddling in Ghana while the city burned,” Maher said.

According to The Hill, instead of focusing on natural disaster preparedness amid warnings from wildfire professionals, California government officials allocated resources to "Trump-proofing" the state. They allegedly ignored imminent warning signs and diverted funds away from critical infrastructure budgets and wildfire management.

“We have the highest marginal tax rate in America, higher than almost all other states … What is included for that? Breadsticks? Because it clearly doesn't cover fire,” Maher said.

Cal Fire reported that as of January 27, the Palisades and Eaton Fires are 95% and 99% contained respectively. The Palisades Fire has burned 23,448 acres, destroyed 6,837 structures, damaged 1,017 others, and resulted in 12 fatalities and three injuries. The Eaton Fire has burned 14,021 acres, destroyed 9,418 structures, damaged 1,073 structures, and caused 17 fatalities. Santa Ana winds and drought conditions combined with heavy brush from previous years' rains exacerbated the fires. Investigations into their causes are ongoing.

Bill Maher is an American comedian known for his political commentary and television presence. He hosts HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher," which has aired since 2003. Born on January 20, 1956, in New York City, Maher began his career as a stand-up comedian before gaining fame with his ABC talk show "Politically Incorrect," according to his IMDB page.