Story perspectives

Trump Faces Backlash Over FEMA's Slow Disaster Response

12/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faces criticism from disaster survivors in ten states and Puerto Rico over FEMA mismanagement.
Survivors in Washington, D.C., demand accountability from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for relief delays.
Reports show FEMA's response is slow and large disaster funds remain unpaid months after disasters.
A leaked report proposes cutting FEMA's workforce by 50 percent, prompting concern about the agency's future.

History

Historical Context

Following Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, which inflicted $125 billion in damages, FEMA's response faced significant criticism for inefficiencies. This scrutiny led to calls for reform from officials like Elaine Duke, then-Secretary of Homeland Security. Today, survivors in ten states and Puerto Rico continue to express frustrations over FEMA's slow response and proposed workforce cuts, underscoring ongoing challenges in disaster management.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faces criticism from disaster survivors in ten states and Puerto Rico over FEMA mismanagement.
Survivors in Washington, D.C., demand accountability from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for relief delays.
Reports show FEMA's response is slow and large disaster funds remain unpaid months after disasters.
A leaked report proposes cutting FEMA's workforce by 50 percent, prompting concern about the agency's future.

1 / 2