DHS Secretary Responds to Flood Criticism
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem returned to CNN on Thursday, defending her department against accusations that Texas officials were delaying flood response efforts.
It was reported by CNN that FEMA’s ability to act swiftly was hampered by new cost-control policies introduced by Noem. In response, she labeled these accusations as “fake news” and “absolutely garbage,” insisting that her agency acted promptly after the floods wreaked havoc in the region.
“Well, here we go again with fake news CNN. Their claims are simply ridiculous. Our Coast Guard, border patrols, and tactical teams were on the scene immediately. Sure, they might not have received everything right away, but we take pride in our response… It’s concerning that CNN spreads misinformation; it erodes trust in the media,” Noem stated.
“This erosion of trust is genuinely harmful; people are losing faith in what they hear from the news, which isn’t ideal,” she added.
A CNN representative confirmed to the Daily Call News Foundation that the network stands by its report.
Noem has mandated that all FEMA contracts and grants exceeding $100,000 require her approval, a move CNN reported in June. This directive reportedly caused frustration among FEMA officials during the floods that occurred, which tragically resulted in over 120 fatalities around July 4th.
A spokesperson for DHS clarified that Noem didn’t need to authorize additional FEMA resources since she deployed other DHS assets for search and rescue operations.
“FEMA is shifting from a convoluted, DC-focused process to a streamlined disaster response that allows local actors to help their communities,” explained McLaughlin, a DHS official. “The old system has been ineffective for years.”
The department announced in a press release that FEMA had been revitalized in Texas, with the US Coast Guard conducting round-the-clock search and rescue operations for victims.
“We’re currently deploying federal resources to support Texas first responders and working closely with state and local governments to ensure that Texans have the aid they need as recovery efforts begin,” the statement read.
President Donald Trump signed a Disaster Declaration on Sunday, facilitating federal relief and coordinating efforts to help locate missing individuals. He is planning to visit the affected area on Friday with First Lady Melania Trump.
