In a recent interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity, President Donald Trump expressed strong disapproval of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) handling of natural disasters during the previous administration. He asserted that FEMA had been “getting in the way of everything” and proposed that states should manage their own disaster responses, with the federal government providing financial assistance as needed.
President Trump highlighted past successes during his earlier term, stating, “We had hurricanes in Florida. We had Alabama tornadoes… But unless you have certain types of leadership, it’s really, it gets in the way.” He emphasized a preference for state-led initiatives, suggesting that states like Oklahoma should handle their own disaster recoveries, with federal support limited to funding.
The President’s remarks come amid scrutiny of FEMA’s response to Hurricane Helene in September. Reports indicate that some rural communities in North Carolina and Tennessee experienced delays in receiving aid. Notably, a whistleblower alleged that FEMA personnel were instructed to bypass neighborhoods displaying support for conservative figures, including President Trump.
Following these controversies, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell resigned on Monday. Former Navy SEAL Cameron Hamilton has been appointed as the agency’s acting administrator.
President Trump announced plans to visit North Carolina to address ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene, stating, “We’re going to get that thing straightened out because they’re still suffering from a hurricane from months ago.” He also intends to travel to Los Angeles County, California, to assess the damage from recent wildfires, where he has previously criticized state leadership for mismanagement.
PRESIDENT TRUMP: FEMA is getting in the way of everything and the Democrats actually used FEMA not to help North Carolina. On Friday, I’m stopping in North Carolina… because those people were treated very badly. We’re going to get that thing straightened out… and then I’m… pic.twitter.com/TxTPNfGKI2
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) January 23, 2025