On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is performing poorly in disaster response, suggesting that the agency needs either modernization or dissolution.
"FEMA is a huge disappointment. It costs a tremendous amount of money. It is very bureaucratic and extremely slow," Trump was quoted by The Washington Post upon his arrival in North Carolina, which was affected by Hurricane "Helen" in the fall of 2024.
"I think we are going to recommend that FEMA be eliminated," he said.
At the same time, he acknowledged the possibility of reforms within the agency or limitations on its powers.
Trump noted that rather than having federal authorities take the lead in disaster recovery, it might be better to allow state officials to take the initiative in this area. The President explained that this approach could potentially save money, with the administration later reimbursing some of the expenses incurred by the states.
He added that the plan is currently under discussion, and further details would be clarified in the coming weeks.
Later, Trump is expected to travel to California, which is facing severe wildfires.
FEMA is a division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that coordinates disaster response efforts that local authorities are unable to manage.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/01/24/trump-north-carolina-california-hurricane-wildfires/