United States President Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter during a visit to a flash-flood site in central Texas. He called her a “very evil person” for asking whether the local alert system was effective. His reaction drew further attention to growing concerns over flood preparedness, even as death toll climbs to 120 with another 170 missing.
As Trump walked through the devastated area, he noted, “It’s hard to believe the devastation. Trees that are 100 years old just ripped out of the ground.” His emotional response briefly shifted tone, yet quickly returned to defensiveness when questioned.
Trump’s Harsh Response Amid Rising Tensions
Trump sharply rebuked the reporter: “Only a bad person would ask a question like that. I don’t know who you are, but only a very evil person would ask you a question that.” His comment echoed criticism of investigative reporters who challenge official accounts.
Republican Representative Chip Roy, present during the trip, supported Trump: “Pointing fingers is for losers … we’ll figure out how to make our systems the best they can be,” he said. Many locals echoed this sentiment, insisting the flood was an act of nature—not a political failure.
Calls for Accountability and Better Warning Systems
However, others, like Pastor Michael Bell, believe authorities still hold responsibility: “There were discussions of some grander scale plans that could have been implemented…some accountability has to happen.” He points to past flood events, like one in 1987, that led to proposals yet little action.
Critics also question whether federal cuts to FEMA and NOAA may have undermined preparedness. Former NOAA chief Rick Spinrad noted staff shortages could have affected forecasts, though he admitted it was “impossible to say right now.”
Texas Legislature to Tackle Warning Systems
In response, Governor Gregg Abbott has called a special legislature session on July 21 to review flood warning systems. Meanwhile, local officials like Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha plan independent reviews after recovery and cleanup of that campground disaster, where 27 campers died despite having an emergency plan approved only two days prior.
