Newsom Names Magic Johnson to ‘LA Rises’ Team Tasked With Rebuilding After Fires

Gavin Newsom named Magic Johnson to LA Rises (Credit: Shutterstock)

Magic Johnson is stepping up for Los Angeles once again — this time to help rebuild the city after this month’s devastating wildfires.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday, Jan. 28, that the Lakers legend will co-lead “LA Rises,” a private-sector initiative focused on wildfire recovery.

Johnson will work alongside Dodgers chairman Mark Walter and Casey Wasserman, president of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee. The trio is tasked with mobilizing funding and resources to rebuild fire-damaged areas, including Altadena, Pasadena, and the Pacific Palisades.

“This is a time for bold action,” Johnson said in a statement released through Newsom’s office. “We’re bringing together the best resources and biggest hearts across California to ensure that every Angeleno — no matter their race, socioeconomic status, or neighborhood — has a chance to rebuild and thrive.”

Related: Jennifer Hudson Highlights Altadena Resilience Amid LA Fires: ‘Altadena Is Home’

Newsom said he tapped Johnson, Walter, and Wasserman for their “proven leadership and deep commitment to Los Angeles.”

Walter and the L.A. Dodgers Foundation have already committed $100 million to the effort, with additional private donations expected.

“The LA fires have wreaked havoc on LA’s neighborhoods. It’s time for those with means to come forward and make a positive impact to build back better,” said Walter.

According to the governor’s office, LA Rises will support city, county, and state-led rebuilding efforts. As officials craft recovery plans, the state is coordinating with federal agencies to speed up rebuilding efforts. LA Rises will unlock private-sector resources to help communities rebuild stronger and faster, the release said.

“LA Rises will channel the unmatched creativity, resources, and generosity of the private sector to rebuild our city and pave the way for a stronger future,” Wasserman stated.

The fires began on Jan. 7, and claimed 28 lives, according to the Los Angeles County coroner’s office.

As of Tuesday, Jan. 28, the Palisades Fire was 96 percent contained after burning more than 23,400 acres, while the Eaton Fire was 99 percent contained and consuming over 14,000 acres, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) said.

Johnson, 65, is no stranger to Los Angeles leadership. After a Hall of Fame basketball career with the Lakers, he built a business empire and became a key figure in the city’s sports and philanthropic landscape.

He is a part-owner of the Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks, and LAFC; and his Magic Johnson Foundation has long supported underserved communities.


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About Maria Leal

Maria Leal is a bilingual, multi-media journalist based in Los Angeles. She can be reached on Twitter @MariaLealNews.

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