Ahead of the first anniversary of the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass sat down with KNX News' Craig Fiegener to discuss the recovery efforts and the criticism she’s received, and if Los Angeles can afford the 2028 Olympics.
You can listen to the full interview in the audio above. Here are some of the highlights from the interview:
Bass on not being in Los Angeles when the fires broke out:
“Obviously, first and foremost, you know, it was horrible I wasn’t here, and that is something that I have to carry with me.”
Bass on where we are today following the fires:
“Where I feel we are today are hard lessons learned, new leadership, making big changes in the fire department and other city areas, looking back at that, and making sure that if anything, we’re overprepared. Especially with the rain, especially with mudslides, especially with evacuations.”
Bass on whether the residents in Palisades have a right to be angry with her:
“Well, you know, people have a right to every emotion they feel. I mean, if anything, I certainly understand grief, and grief is a process that never goes away, and you fluctuate between the stages, and anger is one of the stages. And if there is someone that you feel was very responsible for your pain, then, you know, I would never say that you don't have a right to be angry with us.”
Bass on if the city can afford to do the 2028 Olympics:
“Yes, Los Angeles can afford to do this.” [How?] “Well, rule number one, I do know we will get federal support for the Olympic Games. I think the Olympics is very important to the president. We might not appreciate the presence that he will have during the Olympics, but I have no question that he is committed to that.”
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