California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing scrutiny for his response to the devastating wildfires raging across the Los Angeles area. A new website launched by the governor, ostensibly to combat misinformation about the state's fire prevention and emergency response efforts, features a prominent donation button linked to ActBlue, a major Democratic fundraising platform. This connection has drawn criticism from conservatives and fueled accusations of politicizing the disaster.

The website, californiafirefacts.com, refutes various claims circulating in the media and on social media, presenting Newsom's counterarguments as "facts." At the bottom of the page, a call to "Contribute to the California Fire Foundation" directs users to an ActBlue page where donations ranging from $25 to $1,000 can be made. The page also promotes Newsom's Campaign for Democracy political action committee (PAC), offering to sign up donors for text updates.

Newsom's spokesperson insists that none of the funds raised will benefit the governor or his PAC, emphasizing that the donations will directly support firefighters and affected communities. However, the use of ActBlue, known for its association with Democratic campaigns, has raised eyebrows. ActBlue typically charges a 3.95% processing fee, though reports suggest this fee may have been waived for these fire-related donations.

The controversy surrounding the donation link comes amidst growing frustration among residents impacted by the fires. Some have questioned Newsom's handling of the crisis, citing issues such as depleted fire hydrants. Former President Trump, a frequent critic of Newsom's environmental policies, has called for the governor's resignation, blaming him for the severity of the disaster. Newsom, in turn, has invited Trump to visit the affected areas, urging against politicizing the tragedy.