But Noem had severely botched FEMA’s Texas response by failing to renew contracts with companies staffing FEMA call centers, resulting in a majority of calls going unanswered for days as the flood waters raged. The secretary dismissed the reporting as “fake news.”

Forecasters warn that slow-moving storms could bring heavy downpours to already saturated areas, increasing the risk of flash flooding.

Some governors and mayors are concerned over how current or potential cuts to agencies will impact how the government can respond in the future to major weather events.

Texas lawmakers failed to pass a bill in the regular legislative session that would have improved local governments’ emergency communications infrastructure.

A special session of the Texas Legislature will address the deadly floods in Hill Country, but the fireworks will come from President Trump’s demand for a newly gerrymandered House map.

Kristi Noem detailed how the federal government deployed resources and funds to Texas flood victims, signaling fundamental changes to FEMA under the Trump administration.

Texas has activated a state emergency response to prepare for potential flash flooding in Central and West Texas, with various emergency response resources available to assist in flood rescues and preparedness.

Plus, Republicans strategists are advising lawmakers to appeal to working class voters when selling Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill" ahead of the midterms.

Frustration for some is growing over warnings and evacuation orders given ahead of the storms that dumped water on the Guadalupe River, causing the devastating flash floods that slammed the Texas Hill Country.