Trump establishes FEMA Review Council: ‘Drastically improve’
President Donald Trump has taken a bold step by putting the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under review with the goal of enhancing its efficacy, priorities, and competence. This move comes after the president signed an executive order establishing the FEMA Review Council, which will consist of up to 20 members and be co-chaired by the secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense.
The decision to form the council was prompted by FEMA’s response to Hurricane Helene and other recent disasters, which highlighted the need to improve the agency’s effectiveness, focus, and capabilities. The executive order emphasizes the importance of evaluating whether FEMA’s bureaucratic structure hinders its ability to respond successfully to disasters.
According to the executive order, despite allocating nearly $30 billion in disaster aid each year, FEMA has failed to provide adequate support to vulnerable Americans in times of need. There are also concerns about political bias within the agency, with allegations that FEMA managers instructed responders to avoid homes of individuals supporting President Trump’s campaign.
President Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with FEMA during a visit to North Carolina, where the state is still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene more than four months after the storm hit. He announced plans to overhaul the agency, stating that he believes FEMA is “not good” and may need to be reformed or even eliminated.
The president criticized FEMA for losing focus on its mission and diverting resources to support missions outside its scope, such as spending over a billion dollars on welcoming illegal immigrants. Trump emphasized the need for an immediate, effective, and impartial disaster response and recovery process for all Americans.
The executive order calls for a comprehensive review of FEMA by experienced individuals in disaster response and recovery. The review will recommend improvements or structural changes to enhance national resilience and promote the national interest. Trump also expressed his desire for states to take on more responsibility in disaster response, as they are better equipped to provide timely and effective assistance.
As the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reports that only half of the debris recovery from Hurricane Helene is complete, thousands of families in North Carolina continue to rely on FEMA’s Transitional Housing Assistance program for housing. The president has pledged to assist the state in expediting the recovery process and ensuring that the damage is addressed promptly.
In conclusion, President Trump’s decision to review and potentially overhaul FEMA reflects his commitment to improving disaster response and recovery efforts in the United States. By prioritizing the needs of vulnerable Americans and streamlining FEMA’s operations, the administration aims to ensure a more efficient and effective response to future disasters.
