Los Angeles County is burning. Here’s what you need to know.
Jan 9, 2025
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Wildfires are wreaking havoc in Los Angeles County, forcing evacuations and challenging firefighters. The legacy of a former president’s commitment to honesty reveals the costs of transparency in leadership. In sports, two Black head coaches are finally facing off in a major college football playoff, highlighting strides in diversity. The conversation also covers essential health alerts for norovirus and a beloved morning show host's emotional farewell to focus on family.
The wildfires in Los Angeles have caused significant destruction and displacement, with over 1,000 structures lost and severe economic impacts expected.
Jimmy Carter's legacy illustrates the complex relationship between honesty in leadership and its perceived effectiveness amidst modern political challenges.
Deep dives
Wildfires Devastate Los Angeles
Uncontrolled wildfires have wreaked havoc in Los Angeles, destroying homes and forcing thousands to evacuate. Key neighborhoods, including Pacific Palisades and Altadena, have reported substantial damage, with more than 1,000 structures burned and multiple fatalities confirmed. Firefighters are struggling against high winds and an unprecedented drought that has left water resources severely limited, leading to declining pressure in fire hydrants. Economic losses are anticipated to be immense, with damage estimates potentially reaching $10 billion as the fires continue to threaten lives and property.
Carter's Legacy of Honesty
The reflection on Jimmy Carter's presidency highlights his commitment to honesty as a defining trait that both endeared him to the public and ultimately hindered his political success. Despite Americans expressing a desire for truthful leadership, Carter's candid approach during crises, such as the Iran hostage situation, was met with public disapproval, particularly after his notorious 'malaise speech.' In stark contrast, contemporary political figures have thrived on less truthful narratives, indicating a shift in what voters seem willing to accept. This evolving landscape of trust in leadership signifies a complex relationship between honesty and political viability in modern governance.
Historic Milestone in College Football
The upcoming Orange Bowl features a historic matchup as Penn State and Notre Dame prepare to make history with their respective coaches, James Franklin and Marcus Freeman, being the first two Black coaches in this prestigious event. The achievement underscores an ongoing challenge within college football, where, despite a majority of Black players, representation in coaching positions has lagged significantly. Both coaches acknowledge the significance of their roles in inspiring other Black coaches and highlight the responsibility they feel to their teams and communities. Participation in this high-stakes game symbolizes progress in a sport that has seen very few Black head coaches reach such prominent positions over the years.
On today’s show: What to know about wildfires ravaging Southern California. The Los Angeles Times is tracking all the latest developments.
Jimmy Carter’s funeral takes place in Washington today. The New Yorker examines his legacy of honesty. And the Washington Post’s Marc Fisher explains how the former president’s honesty may have been his downfall.
For the first time tonight, two Black head coaches will face off in a College Football Playoff semifinal. The Wall Street Journal’s Rachel Bachman lays out why it’s taken so long to get here.
Plus, Attorney General Merrick Garland says he’ll release the special counsel’s report on Trump, how to avoid norovirus, and Hoda Kotb of NBC’s ‘Today’ signs off for the last time.
Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
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