FEMA rejects Newsom meeting

Appropriations Committee.

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GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM, left, and President Trump speak at LAX on Jan. 24.

(MARK SCHIEFELBEIN Associated Press)

Newsom noted that the funding is vital for fire victims. “They should not be revictimized through politics, or by politics or politicians,” he said. “There’s nothing more American than being there for people in need. That's foundational.”

Newsom did not say whether he attempted to request a meeting with the White House when asked by a reporter. The White House did not respond to a request seeking comment.

When asked if he thought his discussions with lawmakers had been successful, Newsom said he was glad to have been able to meet with “folks on the other side of the aisle,” and he characterized the talks as an example of “remarkable graciousness.”

Boozman’s office called the meeting with Newsom productive, saying the senator had “emphasized the need for collaboration between states and the federal government, as well as effective public-private partnerships, to help improve forest management practices and safeguard communities.”

Newsom's office said the governor also met with Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-New York).

During Newsom’s nearly hourlong meeting with Padilla and Espaillat, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the governor's office said discussions were not just about disaster aid, but also the fear and uncertainty experienced by immigrant communities facing federal raids while displaced by the Los Angeles fires.