POLITICO Energy Why states are worried about Trump’s disaster plans
Feb 25, 2025
Zack Colman, a POLITICO reporter specializing in climate change, dives into the anxieties of state leaders regarding disaster preparedness amid cuts from the Trump administration. He highlights the soaring costs tied to natural disasters and the struggle states face as they take on more responsibilities without adequate federal support. The conversation also touches on the implications of these financial cuts, emphasizing how they might lead to costlier consequences in the long run. It's a deep look at the intersection of politics, climate, and community resilience.
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States' Disaster Burden
- State leaders worry that Trump administration cuts shift disaster response burden onto them.
- This includes tasks like forest management, coastal resilience, and post-disaster aid, increasing long-term costs.
Rising Disaster Costs
- Disasters are becoming more expensive due to increased coastal populations and climate change effects.
- More capital is exposed to risk, resulting in higher recovery costs and more frequent severe events.
Justification for Cuts
- Republicans defend the cuts citing a need to reduce the national debt and improve efficiency.
- Critics argue that cutting disaster preparedness increases long-term costs and is indiscriminate.