Kristi Noem Slams CNN’s Flood Response Delay Report As 'Absolutely Trash' In Heated Defense

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem strongly denied a CNN report that claimed she delayed emergency efforts during the deadly Texas flood. The article said Noem’s new funding rule requiring her personal sign-off caused major FEMA delays. Over 100 people died and 150 went missing near the Guadalupe River during the July 4th weekend disaster.

CNN said FEMA could not move quickly due to the new order. They claimed Urban Search and Rescue teams were not deployed until 72 hours after the flooding began. A FEMA official told CNN the agency’s usual approach to anticipate state needs had been disrupted.

Noem Denies Delay And Slams ‘Fake News’

Noem appeared on "Fox & Friends" and called the CNN article “absolutely trash.” She said FEMA, Coast Guard, and Border Patrol units responded right away. 

“Our Coast Guard, our Border Patrol BORTAC teams were there immediately. Every single thing they asked for, we were there,” she said. 

Noem also said officials in Texas never complained about delays.She praised local leaders like Governor Greg Abbott and emergency management director Nim Kidd. She stated that her department is also helping flood-hit areas in New Mexico and North Carolina. She warned that CNN’s false claims hurt public trust.

“The fact that CNN is continuing to be political and push out fake information and false information and lies is not shocking, but it’s a disservice to the country,” Noem said.