Report: L.A. Mayor Karen Bass Controlled Media Strategy After Wildfires

The Democrat mayor reportedly limited interviews and the release of a critical fire department report.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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According to a report in the Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) was in control of the media strategy following the devastating 2025 wildfires in the city. Bass reportedly limited interviews with the fire chief and controlled the release of a critical after-action report on the fires, which left several people dead and many others homeless.

Why it matters

The mayor's apparent control over the media narrative and release of information has raised concerns among residents about transparency and accountability in the handling of the wildfires. The fires caused significant damage and loss of life, and there are questions about whether the city and state could have done more to prevent or respond to the crisis.

The details

The Los Angeles Times reported that Bass controlled how questions from the media would be handled after federal prosecutors said the Palisades fire was ignited by a previous smaller arson fire. Bass's approach also involved 'the release of the highly anticipated Palisades fire after-action report, hours after the prosecutors' announcement and as the Los Angeles Fire Department was facing criticism for not putting out the earlier blaze.' An LAFD spokesperson wrote in an email that 'any additional interviews with the Fire Chief would likely depend on the Mayor's guidance' and that 'regarding a press conference, I would be cautious as it could invite a high volume of challenging questions, and this would also be contingent on the Mayor's direction.'

  • The Palisades fire occurred in 2025.
  • Federal prosecutors announced in October 2026 that the Palisades fire was ignited by a previous smaller arson fire.
  • More than 1,000 victims gathered in January 2026 on the anniversary of the fires to accuse Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) and Mayor Karen Bass of 'negligence' before, during, and after the fires.

The players

Karen Bass

The Democratic mayor of Los Angeles who reportedly controlled the media strategy following the 2025 wildfires in the city.

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California who has faced scrutiny and criticism for his administration's handling of the aftermath of the Palisades fire.

Ronnie Villanueva

The interim Los Angeles Fire Department chief at the time of the 2025 wildfires.

Erik Scott

A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department.

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What they’re saying

“Any additional interviews with the Fire Chief would likely depend on the Mayor's guidance. Regarding a press conference, I would be cautious as it could invite a high volume of challenging questions, and this would also be contingent on the Mayor's direction.”

— Erik Scott, LAFD Spokesperson (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.