Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, has recently clarified that former President Donald Trump does not intend to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), but rather to “reformulate” it to enhance its efficiency. This statement comes in the wake of significant flooding in Texas, which has spurred calls for a more effective federal response.
In her interview with NBC News, Noem explained that Trump aims to make FEMA more agile, stating, “I think the president recognizes that FEMA should not exist in the same way it always has. It needs to be repositioned in a new way.” This reflects a shift from earlier criticisms that Trump had made about FEMA, where he labeled it as disappointing.
Following the devastating floods that resulted in over 132 fatalities and left many missing, Noem underscored the strategy of integrating resources from various federal agencies, including the Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to better assist states in emergencies. She emphasized that it is not solely FEMA that responds to these situations.
Despite criticisms from Democratic legislators, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, who called for her resignation, Noem remains committed to her role, stating she has no intentions of stepping down. She noted that she personally approves contracts exceeding $100,000, asserting her control over expenditures.
In a recent joint press conference held in Kerville, Texas, Noem expressed gratitude to Trump for his support during the crisis, highlighting the resilience of the Texas community. “Now more than ever, we are reminded of the fact that God created us to serve each other,” she remarked, emphasizing the shared obligation of support during such tragedies.
This response strategy represents not just a reactive approach to natural disasters, but a proactive framework for empowering state and local officials to make informed decisions. Noem’s strategies could signal a positive shift in federal disaster management, potentially leading to a more coordinated and effective response in future emergencies.