Fact Check: Trump previously promised to eliminate FEMA, but now supports it during disasters.

Fact Check: "Trump previously promised to eliminate FEMA, but now supports it during disasters."

What We Know

Former President Donald Trump has indeed made statements regarding the elimination of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). He has proposed shifting more responsibility for disaster management to state governments, arguing that states can respond more effectively than the federal government. For instance, during a cabinet meeting, Trump praised FEMA's rapid response to the catastrophic floods in Texas, but he has also indicated a desire to reduce the agency's role significantly, suggesting that it should be eliminated altogether (source-2, source-3).

In the wake of recent disasters, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has publicly commended Trump's quick approval of disaster declarations, which unlock federal funds for recovery efforts. Abbott stated that Trump's actions were "extraordinary help" during the floods (source-2). However, the Trump administration has also been criticized for its plans to cut FEMA's budget and reduce federal disaster assistance, which could place a heavier burden on states (source-4).

Analysis

The claim that Trump previously promised to eliminate FEMA but now supports it during disasters is partially true. While he has made statements advocating for the elimination of FEMA, particularly during discussions about reforming disaster response, he has also recognized the agency's role during immediate disaster situations, such as the recent floods in Texas. This duality reflects a complex stance where he acknowledges FEMA's importance in urgent scenarios while simultaneously pushing for its reduction or restructuring.

Critically, the sources reporting on Trump's statements and actions vary in reliability. For example, NPR and The New York Times provide detailed accounts of Trump's proposals and the implications for state disaster management, which adds credibility to their reporting (source-2, source-3). In contrast, other sources, such as The Hill, suggest a shift in rhetoric towards reform rather than outright elimination, indicating a potential evolution in Trump's approach to FEMA (source-6).

The mixed messaging from Trump and his administration complicates the narrative. While he has indeed proposed eliminating FEMA, his administration's actions during disasters show a reliance on the agency, which suggests a pragmatic approach to disaster management despite ideological preferences.

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim is Partially True. Trump has made promises to eliminate FEMA, reflecting a desire to shift disaster management responsibilities to states. However, during actual disaster events, he has supported FEMA's role, highlighting a contradiction between his proposals and the practical needs of disaster response. This duality indicates that while he may wish to reduce FEMA's influence, the immediate realities of disaster management necessitate its continued operation.

Fact Check: Trump previously promised to eliminate FEMA, but now supports it during disasters.