Filmmaker Justine Bateman recently expressed strong disapproval of Los Angeles officials' handling of the devastating wildfires sweeping through the city. In an interview, she voiced the frustration felt by many Angelenos, emphasizing the need for better preparedness and management in such crises.

Bateman stressed the importance of adequately funding and equipping fire and police departments, as well as having well-rehearsed disaster plans in place. She argued that California's leaders have a responsibility to anticipate and mitigate the impact of natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes, and mudslides. The filmmaker asserted that officials who fail to address these fundamental responsibilities should resign, taking accountability for the consequences of their inaction.

The Eaton Fire burns a vehicle on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025 in Altadena, Calif.  (Ethan Swope/AP)

Bateman's criticism comes amidst widespread public disapproval of Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass's response to the fires. She questioned their competence and highlighted the need for voters to prioritize a candidate's ability to perform the job effectively, regardless of political affiliation. Bateman drew a parallel to choosing service providers based on their qualifications and reputation, urging voters to apply the same logic when selecting political leaders.

Fire personnel respond to homes destroyed while a helicopter drops water as the Palisades Fire grows in Pacific Palisades, California on Jan. 7, 2025. (DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images)

She also expressed concern about Los Angeles's ability to host the 2028 Olympics given the current leadership's perceived shortcomings in disaster preparedness. Bateman implored residents to prioritize electing competent officials who can effectively manage future crises, particularly in light of the potential for earthquakes in the region.

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA - January 08: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, chats with California Governor Gavin Newsom while surveying damage during the Palisades Fire on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in Pacific Palisades, CA. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images)  (Photo by Jeff Gritchen/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images))