Trump, Musk, FEMA Clash Over Starlink Use

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Elon Musk's SpaceX has deployed Starlink satellite systems to restore internet in devastated areas of North Carolina. Former President Donald Trump claimed to have coordinated with Musk to expedite this support, although the White House and FEMA stated that plans for Starlink deployment were already in place. Musk used the situation to criticize the FCC for previously denying Starlink federal subsidies, arguing that the funding could have expedited relief efforts. FEMA confirmed that 40 Starlink systems are currently aiding communications, with an additional 140 en route. Trump toured storm damage in Valdosta, Georgia, and coordinated relief efforts with Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse organization. The political back-and-forth highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and current federal authorities over disaster response effectiveness.