Noem Defends FEMA Amid Criticism of Response to Texas Floods
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defends FEMA's actions during Texas floods, despite reports of inadequate response and calls for her resignation.
Overview
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defends FEMA's response to Texas floods, labeling criticism as politically motivated.
- Reports indicate FEMA failed to answer nearly two-thirds of distress calls from flood victims.
- Noem criticized the politicization of the federal response, asserting it undermines support for affected individuals.
- FEMA's call center faced staffing issues, with Noem taking five days to renew contracts for call center staff.
- To enhance accountability, Noem mandates her approval for contracts exceeding $100,000, aiming for better oversight.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the narrative around Kristi Noem's defense of FEMA's response, highlighting her acknowledgment of agency shortcomings while also emphasizing her alignment with Trump’s vision for FEMA. Implicit bias suggests skepticism towards her accountability, reflecting a tension between political leadership and operational effectiveness in disaster response.
"Attention is shifting to various local, state and federal officials and governments, as questions mount over disaster response and warning systems."
USA TODAY"Noem reiterated that she believed the president “wants it to be remade so that it’s an agency that is new in how it deploys and supports states.”"
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FAQ
FEMA was criticized for failing to answer nearly two-thirds of distress calls from flood victims and for staffing issues at its call center, which delayed the response to the Texas floods.
Kristi Noem defended FEMA's actions, labeling the criticism as politically motivated and emphasized that politicizing the federal response undermines support for affected individuals.
Kristi Noem mandated her approval for FEMA contracts exceeding $100,000 to enhance accountability and oversight in disaster response efforts.
The USDA, under Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, has deployed various disaster response teams including emergency meals, nutrition support, debris clearance crews, and assistance programs for farmers and ranchers affected by the floods.
Affected individuals should first file claims with their insurance providers and then apply for federal assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov, calling FEMA's helpline, or using the FEMA mobile app.
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