Corruption is ingrained in Los Angeles,” said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog, a non-profit public interest group.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ deputy mayor — whose purview included oversight of the city’s fire department — was placed on administrative leave last month after the FBI

California voters have had the power to recall elected officials. It was meant for a time like this, when “indolent” and incompetent leaders are failing. The recall allowed citizens to quickly remove an officeholder and vote in a replacement at the same time.

Since Mayor Bass returned to LA, she has thanked the LAFD for their service and announced that the fires have been "fully contained."

The Los Angeles Fire Department refuted speculation that its chief, Kristin Crowley, had been dismissed as crews continue to battle the wildfires across the region.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass repeatedly dodged questions about her leadership and alleged lack of initial presence during the ongoing wildfires affecting the area.

The mayor's office told Newsweek on Friday that "The priority remains fighting these fires and protecting Angelenos."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) is facing mounting backlash over her response to the wildfires that have torn through her city, raising questions about her own political future as the region continues to struggle to contain the fires.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is facing criticism from across the city's political spectrum over the preparations for and handling of the fire outbreak that started Tuesday.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and local Democrats have failed the city by weakening the fire department and being absent during a crisis.

Bass stayed mum while a reporter grilled her, asking, "Do you owe citizens an apology for being absent while their homes were burning?"