Homeland Security Secretary Noem Faces Criticism Over Texas Flood Response Delays

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is facing intense criticism for the federal response to the devastating flash floods in Texas that killed at least 120 people. Critics attribute delays in FEMA's disaster response to new policies implemented under Noem that require her personal approval for any grants or contracts exceeding $100,000, which insiders say stripped FEMA of its autonomy and slowed urgent rescue operations by up to 72 hours. Noem has vehemently denied these claims, calling reports of delayed response “fake news” and emphasizing that other DHS assets such as the Coast Guard and Border Patrol were deployed immediately. Democrats, including Reps. Greg Stanton and Gabe Amo, have condemned the Trump administration's budget cuts to FEMA and related agencies as undermining disaster readiness and called for congressional testimony from Noem and FEMA leadership. Noem has also expressed a desire to dismantle FEMA as it currently exists, arguing that it has historically been slow to deliver aid and advocating for a leaner, state-empowered disaster response model. The controversy highlights an ongoing debate over federal disaster management amid budget cuts and structural reforms under the Trump administration.