Trump Reconsiders FEMA Amid Disaster Visits

During visits to disaster zones in California and North Carolina, President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with FEMA and suggested that states might handle disasters independently. He pledged support but indicated potential changes to federal response roles, sparking discussions on federal and state responsibilities in disaster management.

President Donald Trump toured disaster-stricken areas in California and North Carolina, expressing intentions to overhaul the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). During his visits, Trump criticized the agency for bureaucracy and inefficiency, proposing that state governments assume more disaster management responsibilities.

In California, Democratic leaders, often in opposition to Trump, reached across the aisle for federal aid assistance. Trump, meanwhile, suggested bypassing FEMA to directly fund states, advocating faster rebuilding efforts. He engaged with Governor Gavin Newsom, despite past conflicts, noting the significance of witnessing the devastation firsthand.

Conversing with residents and officials, Trump's comments on FEMA hinted at broader federal reform strategies. Critiques emerged of possibly tying federal assistance to policy concessions and diminishing FEMA's role. As these potential shifts unfold, questions about state and federal roles in disaster responses loom large, particularly amid climate change challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)