Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has found herself in hot water for being out of the country during the recent devastating wildfires that ravaged her city. Her trip to Ghana coincided with the outbreak of the fires, drawing considerable criticism and prompting comparisons to a 2021 incident involving Senator Ted Cruz. Bass had previously criticized Cruz for traveling to Cancun while Texas grappled with a severe winter storm, a tweet that has now resurfaced and fueled accusations of hypocrisy against the mayor.

Social media users quickly pointed out the seeming contradiction in Bass's actions and words. While she departed for Ghana before the wildfires ignited, the timing of her trip drew sharp condemnation, particularly in light of her past criticism of Cruz. The intense scrutiny focused on her leadership during the crisis.

Former President Donald Trump also weighed in on the matter, attributing the spread of the wildfires to what he termed "gross incompetence" on the part of both Mayor Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom.

The wildfires have caused widespread destruction across California, tragically claiming five lives and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. As of Thursday morning, the damage toll included over 2,000 homes, businesses, and other structures either damaged or destroyed.

Upon returning from Ghana, Mayor Bass was questioned by reporters about her trip but offered no comment. She also declined to address whether she regretted cutting the city’s fire department budget the previous year. In a subsequent news conference, Bass stated that she returned via the "fastest available route," which involved military transport, and emphasized that she remained in contact throughout the flight.

Senator Cruz's 2021 trip to Mexico occurred during a deadly winter storm in Texas that left millions without power. At the time, Cruz explained that he accompanied his daughters on the trip at their request and maintained constant communication with state and local leaders. He later conceded that the trip was a mistake.