Kristi Noem Blasts Political Criticism of Texas Floods Response as 'Despicable'

In the wake of the tragic July Fourth floods in central Texas, which claimed at least 129 lives with over 160 still missing in Kerr County, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has come out swinging against critics of the federal response. Speaking on a Sunday talk show, Noem dismissed accusations of a delayed FEMA reaction as pure political theater, labeling one Democratic senator’s claims as 'absolutely despicable.'

Noem emphasized that she was on the ground alongside over 700 FEMA workers within hours of coordinating with Texas officials. She hailed the operation as the fastest FEMA response in history, a stark contrast to what she described as the agency’s failures under previous leadership. 'We didn’t micromanage; we empowered local and state officials to lead while providing every resource they needed,' she asserted.

Addressing allegations that FEMA calls from desperate flood victims went unanswered due to supposed staff cuts, Noem called the narrative a blatant lie. She condemned the politicization of the disaster, especially while families are still searching for loved ones. 'Using this tragedy for political gain isn’t just a disservice to Texans—it’s a disservice to our entire nation,' she said with palpable frustration.

The secretary’s sharp rebuke underscores a broader tension between federal action and political rhetoric, as Texas continues to grapple with the devastating aftermath of the floods. While the focus remains on recovery, Noem insists the truth must cut through the noise of partisan agendas.