Gavin Newsom’s Effort to Blame Firefighters Backfires

Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration has been under scrutiny for the disbandment of Team Blaze, a volunteer wildfire unit that previously received accolades for their exceptional service. In 2021, this team was honored with the Outstanding Unit Citation for their exemplary work during the Dixie Fire, one of California’s largest wildfires. Despite this recognition, the Newsom administration shut down Team Blaze in January 2024, citing inadequate training.

The disbandment of Team Blaze reportedly left the California National Guard unable to deploy a full firefighting force for a significant wildfire in January 2025. According to The Washington Free Beacon, it took ten days to assemble a sufficient team to combat the blaze. Newsom’s press office dismissed these claims as “absurd,” asserting that the state transitioned to a more professional firefighting force.

The press office defended its actions by stating that California had moved on from a small volunteer component to a large, highly trained force. This statement was met with skepticism, especially given the previous accolades awarded to Team Blaze. Critics, including former members of the team, have questioned the narrative presented by the governor’s office.

Military records reveal that Team Blaze was commended for completing advanced fire training, with all members passing CAL FIRE wildland firefighting training. The Outstanding Unit Citation highlighted their comprehensive firefighting capabilities and praised their reputation for outstanding performance. Such achievements have prompted questions about why the team was deemed inadequately trained.

The Dixie Fire, which raged for 104 days in 2021, covered nearly a million acres across five counties. Team Blaze’s efforts during this catastrophic event were a testament to their skill and dedication. Former members of the team have expressed frustration at the disparaging comments from the Newsom administration.

One former firefighter remarked to The Free Beacon, “They literally gave them a medal for being the best unit in the California State Guard.” This sentiment reflects a broader discontent among those who served in Team Blaze and other supporters. Many believe the team’s disbandment was a misstep that left the state vulnerable.

Jay Coggan, the former commanding general of the California State Guard, criticized the decision to dissolve Team Blaze. He stated that the 10-day delay in response could have been avoided if the team had been retained. Coggan expressed anger over the dismissal of the dedicated volunteers under his command.

“The state guard is made up of over 1,200 dedicated volunteers who just want to keep people safe,” Coggan emphasized. His comments underscore the sense of disrespect felt by those who served in the state guard. Many see the governor’s decision as a slight against their commitment and service.

Newsom’s press office responded to critiques by highlighting the expansion of the California National Guard’s firefighting capabilities. However, the decision to dissolve a unit that had “far exceeded expectations” remains contentious. The administration’s rationale for the disbandment continues to face scrutiny.

For many, the recognition Team Blaze received in 2021 stands in stark contrast to the narrative of inadequate training. The team’s successful handling of the Dixie Fire is seen as proof of their capability. The governor’s administration is challenged to reconcile these past accolades with their current stance.

The debate over Team Blaze’s disbandment illustrates broader tensions over state emergency preparedness. Critics argue that dismantling a proven unit undermines California’s ability to respond swiftly to wildfires. As wildfires become more frequent, the state’s strategy for combating them is under the microscope.

Supporters of Team Blaze contend that volunteer units bring unique value to emergency response efforts. The flexibility and dedication of such teams can complement professional forces. The loss of Team Blaze, they argue, represents a missed opportunity to leverage diverse resources.

While the administration focuses on building a professional firefighting force, the legacy of Team Blaze lingers. The accolades they received are a reminder of what they achieved during their active years. The decision to dissolve the team leaves questions about the balance between professional and volunteer contributions.

For now, the debate continues as California faces ongoing wildfire threats. The state’s approach to managing these emergencies will remain a topic of discussion. As the situation evolves, the impact of disbanding units like Team Blaze will be closely watched.

The controversy surrounding Team Blaze underscores the complexities of emergency management. In a state prone to natural disasters, decisions about resource allocation are critical. The lessons learned from this situation may influence future strategies in wildfire response.

As Californians reflect on the past, many are left pondering the implications of political decisions on public safety. The tension between honoring past achievements and pursuing new strategies remains a key challenge. In the end, the goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents amidst increasing threats.