On Friday, President Donald Trump visited Central Texas to assess the catastrophic damage caused by devastating floods that claimed the lives of at least 120 individuals, many of whom were children. The floods, which occurred last weekend, have left a community in mourning, with countless families still searching for their loved ones. “It’s hard to believe the devastation,” Trump remarked. “Trees that are 100 years old just ripped out of the ground. I’ve never seen anything like it.” His experience with hurricanes and tornadoes pales in comparison to the destruction witnessed in this recent disaster.
During his visit, Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, met with families affected by the floods. He expressed the difficulty of finding the right words to offer comfort to those who have lost children. “I mean, look, they’ve been devastated. They lost their child or two children, and just hard to believe … a little narrow river that becomes a monster,” he said, highlighting the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The search for survivors continues, with at least 173 individuals reported missing following the flash floods that swept through Central Texas, tragically resulting in the deaths of 36 children. “Unfortunately, they’re still looking. They’re still looking. There’s a lot of missing children,” Trump stated, assuring the public that search teams are dedicated to finding everyone. “But it’s not an easy thing. You would think it would be easy. It’s very tough.”
The day unfolded as a somber event, with Trump presiding over a gathering where state and local officials expressed their condolences, thanked first responders, and pledged ongoing support for the rebuilding efforts in Texas Hill Country. The presence of television host Dr. Phil during a roundtable discussion on grief added a unique touch, as Trump navigated the emotional landscape of the day.
When a reporter raised concerns regarding the timeliness of flood warnings, Trump reacted defensively, dismissing the inquiry. “Everyone did an incredible job under the circumstances,” he insisted, adding that “only a very evil person would ask a question like that.” However, he later acknowledged the need for improvements in flood warning systems, a sentiment echoed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who called for a special legislative session to evaluate the state’s flood response protocols.
A troubling report from the Washington Post revealed that Kerr County officials had the technology to issue immediate alerts to cellphones in the area but failed to do so as water levels surged dangerously. This oversight has prompted discussions about enhancing emergency communication methods to prevent future tragedies.
During his remarks, Trump commended the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an agency he once proposed to abolish. He acknowledged that “some good people are running FEMA” and noted how Texas has effectively utilized federal resources. “You know, we give them a lot of money, but they spend it wisely,” he stated, contrasting this with other instances where federal funds may not be managed as effectively.
The First Lady participated fully in the visit, offering prayers and support to families who suffered losses. She expressed her commitment to returning and providing ongoing assistance. “We are here to honor them and also to give the support, help,” Melania Trump said, referring to the children who tragically lost their lives in the floods.
As Trump toured the area, a small group gathered near a makeshift memorial adorned with flowers and photographs of the deceased and missing. Many attendees expressed appreciation for the president’s visit. “I would just thank him for coming and talking to the first responders and showing an interest,” said Helen Whealdon, an 80-year-old retired police department employee. Others, however, voiced frustration over the government’s response to the flooding.
“I’d like to holler at him and tell him, ‘no taxation without FEMA,’” remarked Claudio Gonzalez, a 78-year-old Kerrville retiree who criticized the administration’s immigration policies while still acknowledging Trump’s leadership. “He’s our leader; what can you do?” Gonzalez reflected, emphasizing the complexities of public sentiment in the wake of such a disaster.
As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, the focus remains on recovery and support for those affected by the floods. The commitment from local and federal officials will be crucial as Texas works to rebuild and ensure better preparedness for future disasters.
