On Friday, President Donald Trump made a trip to Texas in response to the catastrophic floods that have left the state reeling. His visit comes amidst growing scrutiny surrounding the reaction of local officials to the devastating weather events, as well as questions regarding the federal response, particularly the future of FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), which Trump has yet to address directly. This disaster follows a week of heavy rainfall that caused the Guadalupe River in Kerr County to surge by an astonishing 26 feet in under an hour, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 121 lives, including many children from the nearby Christian summer camp, Camp Mystic.
The search continues for over 170 individuals who remain unaccounted for, with more than 2,100 responders from various local, state, and federal agencies working tirelessly on the ground in Kerr County. Local officials face increasing scrutiny regarding their preparedness and response to the escalating weather alerts. Trump’s approach to this disaster has notably diverged from his previous criticisms of local leaders during other crises, such as the California wildfires, where he openly blamed Democratic officials for their handling of the situation.
During a press conference, Texas Governor Greg Abbott highlighted his communication with Trump, emphasizing the President's support for the state during this crisis. "We’ve been in touch with Governor Abbott," Trump stated, reinforcing his close relationship with the Republican governor. This partnership contrasts sharply with Trump's previous criticism of leaders in states that did not align with his political views.
Earlier this week, Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Texas. Governor Abbott shared that he spoke with Trump on the morning of the disaster declaration, receiving assurances that federal assistance would be readily available. Abbott emotionally recounted the tragedy, describing the flood as a "tsunami wave" that took the lives of many young girls. He expressed gratitude for Trump's commitment to ensuring that Texas's needs would be met promptly.
The White House has responded strongly to criticism regarding the administration's cuts to the National Weather Service, which some argue may have impacted forecasting and staffing during this disaster. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denounced claims blaming Trump for the floods, calling such accusations "a depraved lie" during this time of national mourning.
Despite the urgent need for support in Texas, Trump has sidestepped questions about whether he still intends to phase out FEMA. During a Cabinet meeting, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem discussed the federal response, asserting that while the federal government does not manage disasters, it provides essential support. She highlighted that FEMA has been mobilized to an enhanced level immediately following the disaster declaration, ensuring resources and funding are available for recovery efforts.
In later remarks, Noem criticized FEMA's performance under previous administrations, alleging gross mismanagement and negligence. These comments were made to the FEMA Advisory Council, a task force established to recommend reforms for the agency, including potential restructuring. Notably, Trump appointed Abbott as a new member of this council earlier in April.
As of Thursday afternoon, Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson had not yet visited the flood-affected areas in Texas, raising concerns about the federal agency's engagement in the ongoing recovery efforts. The situation in Texas remains dire, with communities desperately needing support and answers as the search for the missing continues.
