During visits to disaster areas in California and North Carolina, Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of “getting rid” of the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
While flying over wildfire-ravaged neighborhoods in California on Marine One, the presidential helicopter, President Trump observed the devastation and spoke to local residents in Pacific Palisades.
“It is devastation. It really is an incineration,” Mr. Trump remarked.
After landing in Los Angeles, Mr. Trump was welcomed by California Governor Gavin Newsom. Despite past criticisms, they had a cordial exchange, and Governor Newsom emphasized the need for support.
During a press conference, Mr. Trump questioned hazardous waste definitions in relation to residents returning home post-disaster.
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President Trump criticized California’s water policies, suggesting they worsened the fires. He expressed the need for better management to prevent future catastrophes.
He remarked on FEMA’s response to Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, calling it a disaster and suggesting a different approach to disaster relief funding.
Instead of relying on FEMA, he proposed direct financial assistance from Washington to states experiencing crises.