Trump Reflects on National Grief Following Texas Floods
On Friday, President Donald Trump articulated the profound sorrow felt across the United States as he and First Lady Melania Trump visited Central Texas to meet families affected by the devastating flooding that claimed over 120 lives. The couple toured the damage in Kerrville, engaging with first responders, local leaders, and survivors of the catastrophic event, highlighting their shared grief.
A Visit Amidst Catastrophe
In Kerrville, President Trump remarked on the heart-wrenching stories he encountered during closed-door meetings with families who lost loved ones to the flood. “We just visited with incredible families that — I mean, look, they’ve been devastated,” he expressed. “They lost their child, or two children. And, just hard to believe. I’ve never seen anything like it, a little narrow river that becomes a monster, and that’s what happened.” The First Lady added, “We are grieving with you,” reinforcing the administration’s commitment to support the mourning families.
The couple’s visit followed the July 4 flash floods that prompted extensive rescue efforts. With over 160 people still unaccounted for, rescue teams, drones, and volunteers continue the search for the missing, while hopes of recovery remain fragile.
Tragic Losses at Camp Mystic
Tragedy struck at Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp located along the river in Kerr County, where 27 campers and counselors lost their lives due to what was described as “catastrophic flooding.” Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, waking up to floodwaters surging through their cabins. Senator Ted Cruz, who visited the camp, shared a poignant moment witnessing parents grieving at the makeshift memorials honoring those lost.
Support and Recovery Efforts
President Trump vowed to support the rebuilding of the affected areas, though he acknowledged the irreplaceable loss of life. “You can never say, ‘Oh, it’s going to be bigger, better, stronger,'” he remarked, instilling hope amidst the devastation. “So many lives have been lost; you can’t say that. But we’re going to make it back. And we’re going to make it good again.”
| Location | Deaths Reported | Missing Persons |
|---|---|---|
| Kerr County | 120+ | 160+ |
| Camp Mystic | 27 | N/A |
As the President arrived via Air Force One in San Antonio, he was accompanied by Texas Senators Cruz and Cornyn, along with members of his Cabinet, reaffirming federal commitment to aid the recovery process. Addressing reporters, he expressed incredulity at the swift devastation wrought by the floods.
While refraining from allocating blame, President Trump commended the collective efforts of local and federal responders during this crisis, describing the flooding as a rare and unexpected event. With a disaster declaration signed, FEMA is actively deploying resources to assist Texas in its recovery.
