Jack Hibbs, a far-right anti-LGBTQ pastor, conspiracy theorist, and Christian nationalist, used his most recent Sunday sermon to blame Democratic politicians in California for the wildfires that have devastated the Los Angeles region over the last week.
"It's time to replace the leadership in California," Hibbs declared. "You don't need any more examples. These fires could have been stopped."
Hibbs then called on his congregation to join him in urging former Fox New commentator Steve Hilton to run for governor.
"I have asked someone to run for governor," Hibbs said. "I'm pleading with him to run for governor. ... Steve Hilton, would you run for governor? Because I'm behind you, we will will support you."
"The Democrat Party not only failed the United States; it is obvious they have failed California," he continued. "They've had unmitigated power; they did nothing with it, but destroy us."
Hibbs then ordered his entire congregation to stand up, look at the broadcast cameras, and join him in pleading with Hilton to launch a campaign.
"Church, why don't you stand up," Hibbs instructed. "Turn around, church. Point to that camera right in the middle. Steve, we are asking you to run for governor of California so that you can get this ship righted. We want you to run and we want you to have your policies implemented. We will do everything possible. We want to help you. We think the houses of faith should help you."
"While I'm at it," Hibbs added. "[Los Angeles mayor] Karen Bass should be removed from office today. Take her out. She should be thankful that John Adams or Samuel Adams, George Washington or John Hancock are not in power right now because she would be arrested for dereliction of duty—which cost people their lives—and she would be hung, according to our colonial fathers."
Like other right-wing commentators who have used the devastating fires to score political points, Hibbs did not acknowledge that extreme weather and more intense natural disasters are widely recognized as likely consequences of climate change.”
