Overview
- The Republican senators held a Thursday hearing in Pacific Palisades and argued the deadly January blaze was preventable, blaming local and state officials for failures before and after the fire.
- They formally requested Los Angeles records on LAFD DEI hiring, LADWP work at the Santa Ynez reservoir, and the dismissal of former Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.
- Johnson warned he could use subpoena power and encouraged whistleblowers to come forward, while Scott said some materials have arrived but not enough to answer key questions.
- Residents described feeling abandoned, ongoing emotional and financial strain, stalled rebuilding, and costly or delayed permits, with some still seeking fee waivers 10 months later.
- Scott said federal help should be tied to accountability, and the senators noted the probe currently centers on Pacific Palisades though they may widen it beyond the area.