Rep. Jasmine Crockett delivered a pointed response during a CNN debate after commentator Scott Jennings controversially linked Los Angeles wildfires to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in firefighting recruitment.
Jennings’ comments during Newsnight sparked backlash as he questioned the effectiveness of programs like the Fire Foundry, which aim to diversify the fire service workforce by recruiting women and people of color.
“We have DEI, we have budget cuts, and yet I’m wondering now if your house was burning down, how much do you care what color the firefighters are?” Jennings said, citing California’s efforts to expand fire service representation beyond its predominantly white and male workforce.
Rep. Crockett swiftly rebuked the claim, stating that DEI initiatives prioritize qualified individuals rather than diminishing standards.
“Because you are a woman or… because I know that some of the right has been sharing these photos of the fact that I believe that the fire chief may be a woman—that has nothing to do with it,” Crockett said. “What diversity, equity, and inclusion has always been about is saying, ‘Open this up. Don’t just look at the White men. Open it up and recognize that other people can be qualified.'”
She continued:
“Stop trying to act as if only white men are the ones that are capable because right now, you’re sitting at a table with three very capable Black women.”
Jennings doubled down on his critique, attributing California’s wildfire challenges to “budget cuts and DEI programming,” and admitted his intention was to blame the state’s Democratic leadership when pressed by anchor Abby Phillip.
The debate comes as devastating wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles County. According to the Associated Press, at least five people have died, thousands of structures have been destroyed, and the death toll is expected to climb as crews assess the damage. The fires, fueled by Santa Ana winds reaching speeds of up to 70 mph, have caused an estimated $52 billion to $57 billion in economic losses, marking the disaster as the most destructive wildfire in the city’s history.
Programs like Fire Foundry, which was highlighted by NPR, aim to address racial and gender disparities in firefighting. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that more than 90% of firefighters are men, and approximately 85% are white.
The initiative partners with Marin County and area universities to create career opportunities for underrepresented groups, focusing on skill development and environmental sustainability.
