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The HBO host added that 300 hydrants across Los Angeles were stolen for parts, and one of the city’s key reservoirs for the Palisades was offline at a critical time. Maher sarcastically observed, “At least in the Palisades, the hydrants were still there.”
Bass Under Fire for Budget Cuts and Ghana Trip
Under a scathing chyron titled “Welcome to the Bungle,” Maher lambasted Mayor Bass for slashing the Los Angeles Fire Department’s budget and being on a trip to Ghana when fires erupted. He labeled her the “Nero of American politics,” accusing her of fiddling while the city burned.
Maher highlighted the disconnect between Bass’s statements and the realities faced by fire crews. The mayor downplayed the impact of the budget cuts, claiming, “There were no reductions that were made that would have impact in this situation.” But Maher countered with the fire chief’s urgent plea: “We are screaming to be properly funded. And yes, the budget was cut, and it did impact our ability to provide service.”
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Referencing fire engines out of service due to lack of maintenance, Maher said, “By the looks of all the fire engines in the bone yard, out of service because we didn’t fix them, she’s right.”
California Taxes and Mismanagement
Turning his attention to California’s exorbitant taxes, Maher criticized the state for its inefficiency. “We have the highest marginal tax rate in America,” he said, noting that the money collected is not being effectively used to protect residents from disasters like wildfires.
“That’s government’s job. Protect us from crime, violence, theft, fire. I’m not saying Alabama would have done better with fires by fighting them with prayer in school, but look me in the eye and tell me anyone could have done worse,” Maher quipped. He compared the state’s response to fire management by Neanderthals, who “fought to a tie.”
Calls for Accountability
Maher demanded that city and state leaders prioritize spending on essential services like fire prevention instead of raising taxes. However, Congresswoman Maxine Waters defended the idea of higher taxes, stating, “Services cost money, and we should be willing to get the richest people in this country…to make sure they pay their fair taxes so that we can have the money to provide the services.”
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Waters’ remarks during an interview with Chris Cuomo sparked further debate, but Maher’s monologue highlighted growing frustration among Los Angeles residents who feel abandoned by their leadership.
Bill Maher’s sharp critique of Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom underscores a growing sentiment that California’s leaders are failing their constituents. With wildfires wreaking havoc and essential services stretched thin, Maher’s monologue served as a wake-up call for accountability and better governance in the Golden State.
