As the Texas floods claim 82 lives, Melania Trump faces fierce backlash over a brief social media message — critics blame her and Donald Trump’s budget cuts for weakening disaster preparedness.
July-7, 2025: Melania Trump has ignited controversy online after posting a short condolence message in the wake of the devastating Texas floods, which have claimed 82 lives and left dozens missing. As search and rescue operations continue across Kerr County, the former First Lady’s message of “thoughts and prayers” has been widely condemned as inadequate — and, for some, deeply hypocritical.
Also Read: Texas Floods Live: 82 Dead, Trump Plans Visit Amid Mounting Criticism and Search Efforts
The floods, which caused the Guadalupe River to swell by 26 feet on Friday, led to massive destruction, sweeping away homes, vehicles, and dozens of young girls from Camp Mystic who remain unaccounted for.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Melania Trump wrote:
“My heart goes out to the parents in Texas during this difficult time. I am holding you in my thoughts and sending prayers for strength, comfort, and resilience.”
However, what may have been intended as a gesture of sympathy quickly drew criticism from citizens, political commentators, and weather experts, many of whom cited the Trump administration’s budget cuts to disaster preparedness programs as a contributing factor to the scale of the tragedy.
Critics Link Message to Budget Cuts
Several former National Weather Service (NWS) directors had warned just days before the flooding that federal budget slashes under Trump’s leadership had left forecasters under-equipped. In an open letter to the White House, five ex-NWS chiefs cautioned that lives were at risk because of understaffed forecast centers and reduced warning capabilities.
“Our worst nightmare is that weather forecast offices will be so understaffed that there will be needless loss of life,” they wrote.
Critics online were swift and brutal in their reaction to Melania’s post:
- “When is the President of the United States going to say something?” one user asked.
- “Instead of support, why not send back some of that money you and your husband scammed out of taxpayers?” another wrote.
- “How about giving back FEMA funds and NOAA support your husband cut?” added another comment.
Melania’s Silence vs. Public Outrage
The post came just a day after Donald Trump signed a federal disaster declaration for Texas but remained largely silent on the issue publicly — apart from confirming plans to visit the flood-hit areas later this week. In contrast, Melania’s appearance dancing with Trump during July 4 celebrations on the White House balcony further inflamed public sentiment, with many accusing the couple of being disconnected from the national tragedy.
Despite being out of the White House, the Trumps continue to influence federal policy, especially after Trump’s reelection in 2024. The response to the Texas floods — both in terms of action and communication — is now under sharp scrutiny as more families await news of their loved ones.
What’s Next?
As the death toll continues to rise and 27 children remain missing, the focus is shifting from condolences to accountability. With a high-profile visit from Trump expected by Friday and rescue efforts intensifying, the administration’s disaster preparedness — and the public’s trust in its leadership — is facing one of its biggest post-election tests.
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Melania Trump, Texas Floods, Donald Trump, FEMA, Kerr County floods, Trump budget cuts, Camp Mystic, US disaster response, NOAA, flood rescue Texas