Kerrville City Manager Criticizes Homeland Secretary Noem After Deadly Texas Floods

Following deadly flooding in Kerrville, Texas, that claimed 137 lives statewide, local officials expressed sharp criticism of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's response to the disaster. Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice referred to Noem derisively as "basically homeland Barbie" in a text message shortly after a joint press conference addressing search and rescue efforts. The delayed federal response, attributed to Noem's budget cuts and restructuring, led to the resignation of a FEMA official in protest. Records reveal that local government leaders were caught off guard by the floods and struggled with emergency preparedness, further fueling frustration with federal leadership. Noem, previously known for her media-focused image, has faced backlash for perceived ineffectiveness during the crisis. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between local officials and the Trump administration's appointees amid a worsening natural disaster response.