KERRVILLE, TX — President Donald Trump delivered a fiery and unapologetic response Friday when a mainstream media reporter questioned the government’s handling of emergency warnings during the devastating Texas floods — a tragedy that has taken the lives of over 120 Americans.
Trump arrived in the Lone Star State to tour the worst-hit areas from above and meet with first responders, emergency crews, and grieving families. His visit follows a series of bold moves by his administration to speed up aid and expand federal support through FEMA, despite ongoing criticism from Democrats and legacy media outlets.
Before taking questions, Trump approved Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s request to expand the major disaster declaration, unlocking additional financial relief for eight hard-hit counties. The decision, praised by local leaders, is expected to accelerate cleanup, rebuilding, and relief distribution.
But the tone shifted sharply when a reporter asked, “What do you say to families who claim the flood warnings came too late — and that their loved ones could have been saved?”
President Trump didn’t hold back.
“Only a bad person would ask a question like that,” Trump replied. “This was a once-in-a-millennium flood. The men and women on the ground showed incredible heroism. Second-guessing them from behind a microphone is disgraceful.”
He continued, “We’re talking about people who ran into danger to save strangers. Instead of smearing them, we should be thanking them.”
The room responded with applause — especially when Trump turned to take a question from Real America’s Voice, a conservative news outlet that commended the administration’s fast response.
“Now that’s a good reporter,” Trump said. “That’s the kind of question that reflects the truth. Thank you.”
The president was flanked by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who choked back tears earlier this week recalling the heartbreaking loss of young lives at a Christian girls’ camp swept away by the floodwaters. Emergency crews are still searching for victims.
Noem described the tragedy as “unlike anything Texas has ever endured.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the media firestorm afterward:
“Democrats like Chuck Schumer are politicizing this tragedy for cheap headlines. Blaming President Trump for the weather is not only absurd — it’s morally bankrupt. This is a time to unite and support our fellow Americans, not attack those trying to help.”
While President Trump has previously called for a restructuring of FEMA, sources say he is now focused on improving disaster response rather than dismantling the agency outright — a sign of leadership grounded in real-world urgency.
WATCH:
REPORTER: Families are upset because warnings didn't go out in time. What do you say to those families?
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 11, 2025
TRUMP: Well I think everyone did an incredible job under the circumstances. This was a one in 1,000 years. Only a bad person would ask a question like that. Only an evil… pic.twitter.com/IwYS6JJOCF
A Nation in Mourning, A President Standing Strong
As search and rescue operations continue, Texans are seeing firsthand the power of community, faith, and leadership under pressure. From emergency crews risking their lives to Trump’s personal commitment to stand with those affected, the nation is witnessing resilience in action.