On Point | Podcast
Trump's push to shrink FEMA
May 7, 2025
Gerard Albert III, a reporter focused on Western North Carolina's rural communities, joins Tim Manning, former FEMA deputy administrator, to discuss the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. They dive into the devastation faced by locals and the political implications of federal disaster relief denial. Manning shares insights on FEMA's role and challenges, while both guests reflect on changing policies under Trump. The conversation highlights community resilience and the need for improved disaster management, shedding light on the struggles of securing adequate federal support.
46:35
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Quick takeaways
- Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation in North Carolina, leading to significant loss of life and long-term emotional trauma for residents.
- The podcast highlights criticism of FEMA's funding policies under Trump, where support for disaster relief was reduced, increasing local recovery burdens.
Deep dives
Hurricane Helene's Devastation
Hurricane Helene was one of the deadliest hurricanes to hit the continental U.S. since Katrina, causing severe destruction across the southeastern states. After making landfall in Florida, it transformed into a tropical storm that unleashed record-breaking rain and hurricane-force winds in western North Carolina. The storm resulted in catastrophic flash floods, landslides, and significant loss of life, with 107 fatalities reported in the state. Areas like Swannanoa experienced devastating effects, including entire neighborhoods being displaced and critical infrastructure being destroyed.
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