President Donald Trump promised rapid recovery efforts and significant federal support for North Carolina after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the state. Speaking during a briefing at an airport fire and rescue facility in Fletcher on January 24, Trump criticized the prior administration’s response and announced plans to overhaul the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to improve disaster relief operations.
Hurricane Helene caused unprecedented damage, with 104 confirmed fatalities and severe destruction to 73,000 homes. Trump described the storm as “one of the worst natural disasters in American history,” noting the extensive water damage as particularly catastrophic. He pledged that the Army Corps of Engineers would address critical infrastructure issues, including river breaks, to expedite recovery.
“This was like several hurricanes in one,” Trump said, reflecting on the scope of the damage. “We’re going to make North Carolina bigger, better, and stronger than ever before.”
Trump criticized FEMA’s handling of the disaster, citing delayed responses, unanswered emergency calls, and reports that some FEMA employees allegedly refused assistance to residents displaying pro-Trump signs. He suggested fundamental reforms to FEMA, hinting at its potential elimination in favor of state-led disaster responses. “FEMA has turned out to be a disaster,” he said, adding that local governments should take the lead in disaster relief.
In addition to outlining recovery plans, Trump praised Samaritan’s Purse and its president, Franklin Graham, for their role in assisting affected communities. “Franklin and his team have done an incredible job,” Trump said. “We’re proud to support their work.”
Trump also directed his administration to focus on providing disaster aid to rebuild homes and infrastructure, with an emphasis on improving conditions beyond pre-storm levels. While FEMA’s role remains uncertain, Trump underscored that North Carolina’s recovery would be prioritized under his leadership.
“We’re going to knock this out,” Trump told a gathering of state officials, federal representatives, and local leaders.
Hurricane Helene’s destruction has prompted broader conversations about improving disaster preparedness and federal response strategies. Trump’s proposals, including changes to FEMA, are likely to spark debate in the coming weeks.
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