On a day marked by a somber atmosphere, President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump made their way to Kerr County, Texas, following the devastating floods that wreaked havoc over the weekend. Their visit included surveying the extensive damage, engaging with local residents and officials, expressing gratitude toward the courageous first responders, and committing to ongoing federal support as the community embarks on its recovery journey.
During a roundtable discussion with first responders, local, state, and federal officials, President Trump shared the following sentiments:
- “As a nation, we grieve for each life lost to the flood and we extend our prayers to the families left behind. The resilience displayed by these families is remarkable. I honestly can’t fathom how they endure.” Watch
- “The response from the people here — first responders, the sheriff’s department, law enforcement — has been nothing short of extraordinary.” Watch
- “We took a brief tour of the area. The destruction is hard to comprehend — trees that have stood for a century uprooted. I’ve never witnessed anything like it… We met with families who have faced unimaginable loss.” Watch
- “There were many young souls at a Christian summer camp named Camp Mystic… They were there out of love for God — as we mourn this unfathomable tragedy, we find solace in knowing that God has embraced those beautiful little girls in heaven.” Watch
- “My Administration is doing everything possible to assist Texas… We’ve deployed over 400 first responders and have facilitated more than 1,500 rescues… Customs and Border Protection, along with the U.S. Coast Guard, have dispatched numerous search and rescue teams.” Watch
- “Two words encapsulate what I’ve witnessed here: unity and competence. The collective effort is truly remarkable — it’s a rare sight.” Watch
Local officials and community members expressed their gratitude for the Trump Administration’s response:
- Gov. Greg Abbott: “We are immensely grateful for your deployment of the Coast Guard and for the resources provided. When I requested a disaster declaration, you and your Administration acted promptly. This response has been the fastest I’ve seen from any Administration.”
- Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick: “Your presence, along with Madam First Lady, sends a powerful message. It’s an image that words cannot convey and it instills hope… With your support, we will overcome the debris and rebuild, and I know we can count on you. Thank you from the depths of my heart, on behalf of all these families.”
- Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief W. Nim Kidd: “Your swift declaration for both individual and public assistance will significantly aid our recovery process… Resources from 19 other states have also arrived. Secretary Noem, your coordination has been exceptional — thank you for the outstanding work.”
- Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem: “What we are doing here, sir, is empowering state and local officials to make the best decisions for their communities — because they understand their people and know what’s needed… Thank you for being a President who trusts the local leadership.”
- Rep. Chip Roy: “I cannot express my gratitude enough. When I called you on Friday, you said, ‘whatever you need’… I’ve never witnessed such a quick response and a focus on delivering for the people.”
- Texas State Trooper: “Thank you, sir — without a secure border, we wouldn’t have had the resources to respond this effectively. I wanted to convey that to you personally.”
- Local resident: “This situation is devastating. It’s terrible, but our President is here. He’s supporting us and providing whatever assistance he can.”
