Tucker Carlson was taken aback by a controversial new theory regarding the devastating fires sweeping through Los Angeles. Michael Shellenberger, a prominent reporter Carlson describes as possibly "the best reporter in America," appeared on Carlson's show to offer his take on the fires, which have so far claimed at least 25 lives.
The blazes, still raging a week later, have also destroyed over 12,000 structures and charred 40,000 acres of land.
As the death toll rises, Shellenberger made a startling claim, suggesting that meth addicts may be responsible for starting some of the fires out of a sense of nihilism.
"Meth heads love to start fires," Shellenberger explained, attributing this behavior to the drug’s effect on the mind. "Meth is the drug of nihilism. It’s perfect for California." He added that, in his estimation, "half of all fires" in the county for many years have been linked to the homeless population.
Carlson, stunned by the suggestion, asked, “Why do homeless people start fires?” Shellenberger responded: “Well, it turns out meth heads love to start fires.” He further explained that meth causes psychosis and psychopathy, driving those who use it to engage in dangerous behaviors like setting fires, calling it a "Satanic" act.
Michael Shellenberger may be the best reporter in America. Here’s what he’s learned about the fires in Los Angeles — and about UFOs.
— Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) January 14, 2025
(0:00) How Many Fires Are There? Where Did They Come From?
(3:03) Are Meth Heads Lighting the Fires?
(14:56) DEI Fire Departments
(34:44) Leftists… pic.twitter.com/CeY1e3sWKm
Shellenberger also criticized California Democrats, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, for failing to address the growing homelessness crisis.
The fires have led to mandatory evacuation orders for over 200,000 residents and left thousands trapped in shelters, unable to return home.
Despite the growing crisis, Mayor Bass is facing backlash for her handling of the situation, particularly after she was criticized for traveling to Ghana last week while the fires were raging.
She has been under fire for both her absence during the crisis and the years of budget cuts to the Los Angeles Fire Department, which has been plagued by understaffing and underfunding. Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley has publicly warned that these cuts could have dire consequences, and indeed, the devastating fires have tested the limits of the city's firefighting capabilities.
As of now, the fires continue to rage across Southern California, with some areas under extreme fire danger warnings. The wildfires, which have burned thousands of acres of prime real estate, are showing no signs of slowing down, and authorities are focusing on the arduous task of locating and identifying victims from the destruction.
In addition, Los Angeles officials, including Governor Newsom, are facing intense scrutiny, with over 100,000 residents signing a petition calling for his resignation in the wake of the disaster.
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