Donald Trump has faced harsh criticism over "disrespectful" comments he made regarding the Texas floods.
During a Fox News interview with his daughter-in-law Lara Trump, President Donald Trump drew criticism after suggesting that “bells” might have helped prevent the tragic loss of life in the recent catastrophic floods in Central Texas.
When asked what message he had for the families of the 129 people who died in the Kerrville-area floods, Trump responded: “There can be nothing worse than losing a child,” before claiming that there had been “very early warning” in the days and hours leading up to the disaster.
“Maybe they should’ve had bells or something go off,” he added. “It’s pretty dangerous territory when you think of all the times they’ve had this problem.”
Trump’s remarks, described by many online as insensitive and out of touch, came amid growing concerns about his recent public appearances, including what some called a “bizarre” on-air demeanor during the Lara Trump interview.
Critics quickly took to social media to condemn his comments, particularly in light of his administration’s previous cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and early warning systems.
One user posted: “Maybe don’t cut hundreds of NOAA forecasting positions, Mr. President.”
Another wrote: “This makes me ill. Children died, families are in unimaginable pain, and the President says ‘they should’ve had bells’? I hope families sue this ill-prepared government.”
A third added simply: “This is inexcusable. He should resign.”
Adding to the controversy, Trump inaccurately described the flooding as something that “has never happened before,” contradicting the National Weather Service, which has long identified the region as part of “Flash Flood Alley,” one of the most flood-prone areas in the country.
While visiting Kerrville on Friday, Trump also came under fire for his response to a local reporter who questioned the timeliness of emergency warnings. Rather than addressing the concern, he praised first responders and turned on the journalist.
“Only a bad person would ask a question like that,” Trump snapped. “I don’t know who you are, but only an evil person would ask a question like that.”
Despite the backlash, Trump reiterated his support for the local emergency teams: “I think everyone did an incredible job under the circumstances. This has been heroism. The job you've all done is really incredible.”
The interview and press conference have sparked widespread debate over leadership, preparedness, and accountability during national tragedies.