The Southern Truth: McKinnor Stands With Mayor Bass—Legislators, Take Action Now

By Gloria Zuurveen, Editor-in-Chief

Following up on the previous Southern Truth call to action for California state legislators to act swiftly, it is encouraging to see leadership stepping up in response to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and her delegation’s urgent request for disaster recovery funding. The devastating fires this past January in the Palisades and the Altadena area destroyed historical homes, businesses, and irreplaceable memories. Thousands remain displaced, facing an uncertain future.

In a bold move, Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), Chair of the LA County Legislative Delegation, stood alongside Mayor Bass, Los Angeles Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, and City Councilmembers Bob Blumenfield, Adrin Nazarian, and Katy Yaroslavsky to demand an emergency state budget allocation of $1.893 billion to aid in recovery efforts.

McKinnor Speaks Truth to Power

Assemblymember McKinnor is proving that leadership is more than just holding a title—it is about taking decisive action. By standing with Mayor Bass, McKinnor is making it clear that she is committed to securing the resources necessary to help those affected by the Eaton and Palisades fires, which destroyed over 18,000 structures and displaced more than 180,000 residents.

McKinnor captured the urgency of this moment, stating:

“This natural disaster is not a partisan issue—it is a people issue—and we will put the needs of the people of Los Angeles first. Just as California has stood up for the communities of the North State, the North Bay, and regions across the state impacted by wildfires and natural disasters, now is the time for the State of California to stand up for the people of Los Angeles. Today’s budget request is essential to make sure the City of Los Angeles has the resources necessary to rebuild every neighborhood impacted by the devastating January 2025 fires.”

That is speaking truth to power. But words alone are not enough. McKinnor’s call must be reinforced by immediate legislative action.

The Stakes Are Too High to Wait

Without state support, even as the City of Los Angeles pushes forward at record speed to clear debris and initiate rebuilding, the ability of 3.8 million Angelenos to continue receiving essential services is at risk. The stakes couldn’t be higher. McKinnor rightly pointed out:

“Mayor Karen Bass is doing everything possible to successfully lead the recovery and rebuilding of Los Angeles.”

Now, it is time for every legislator with the power to act, just as McKinnor has, to stand up and support this urgent budget request. The people of Los Angeles cannot afford bureaucratic delays or political posturing. They need action.

A Call to Stand With Bass and McKinnor

Just as McKinnor, Chair of the LA County Legislative Delegation, applauds Mayor Bass for her tireless work in prioritizing rebuilding efforts and showcasing Los Angeles’ fierce and unwavering resilience to the world, so must we. Legislators cannot allow her efforts to be in vain.

To see the LA Legislative Delegation’s letter supporting this emergency budget request—and to track additional legislators joining this fight—click the link below:

🔗 Emergency Budget Request Letter

 

The time is now. The people are waiting. Legislators, do your part.