Summary
California Governor Gavin Newsom accused Elon Musk of spreading disinformation and “encouraging looting” during the Los Angeles fires after Musk reposted false claims that Democrats decriminalized looting.
Newsom clarified looting remains illegal, noting arrests of 30 suspects during the fires.
The disinformation stems from debates over Proposition 47 and 36, which addressed criminal sentencing.
Newsom also condemned Trump’s threats to withhold disaster aid to California, citing past delays tied to political disputes.
The intent is that looting is actually quite rare following natural disasters, requiring reports of it happening to be either provokes or made up.