Prominent podcast host Joe Rogan expressed strong criticism of Hawaii Governor Josh Green’s comments regarding the future plans for land devastated by recent wildfires on Maui’s west coast, particularly the historic village of Lahaina. Rogan’s comments came during a conversation with former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, where they discussed the significant damage caused by the wildfires.
Rogan was taken aback by Governor Green’s suggestion that the state should take over some of the burned land to create a memorial. He found it concerning that, after such a massive tragedy with an unknown number of casualties, Green was already discussing the state’s acquisition of the land for various purposes.
Rogan questioned the timing of such a proposal, believing it to be inappropriate when people affected by the disaster were still grappling with its immediate aftermath. He argued that the focus should be on helping those who lost their homes and possessions, rather than prioritizing state-controlled land initiatives.
Green had stated his intention to explore ways for the state to acquire the land to be used for workforce housing, returning it to families, or preserving it as open spaces in memory of those who perished. His aim was to prevent wealthy individuals from overseas from purchasing the land.
Gabbard joined Rogan in criticizing Green’s suggestion, especially in the context of Hawaii’s high cost of living. She also raised concerns about President Joe Biden’s response to the disaster, particularly the perceived inadequacy of a one-time $700 payment to affected individuals.
From a conservative perspective, Rogan’s criticism aligns with a focus on individual property rights, personal responsibility, and skepticism about government intervention in landownership. It underscores concerns about government overreach and the importance of addressing the immediate needs of disaster victims rather than pursuing long-term state-controlled projects.
