The Johnson, Texas, which was community le, state managed or state managed and federal supported brought the maximum amount of capability to bear in Texas at the right time and the right place. Through the secretary's leadership, to the president's leadership, to my own leadership, to Nim Kid's leadership, to region six, we made that happen. And that is a model of how response should be done.>> That's acting director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, David Richardson, testifying before Congress ye ...

And Congressman Moscowitz, let me be the first to wish you happy summer vacation. Uh because you guys are going home a day early, uh later at 3:00, I believe, is the end. Uh thanks to the decision from House Speaker Johnson yesterday, widely perceived so he would not have to deal with the Epstein files and calls for including from some Republicans uh to release them.So please give us in your estimation the state of play today in the House of Representatives. Well, good morning. Thanks for having me.It's not ...

President Trump traveled to the site of the Texas floods with two missions—to console, and to tout a new response to disasters where Washington takes a back seat to state and local responders. https://t.co/BH1lsVDYxW ...

Joining me now, Jeremy Edwards, former FEMA deputy director of public affairs. Jeremy, uh, DHS Secretary Christy Gnome denies there was any delay in providing resources. As someone who has been behind the scenes, who knows how things operate on the ground.What did you see in FEMA's response. Yeah, I think and and thank you for having me um on the show today. I think what I saw in FEMA's response is a break from a typical process that has previously allowed the agency to lean forward in events like this.And ...

Disaster Response & FEMA - The report highlights a delayed federal response to a tragic flooding event, with at least 121 confirmed dead and 166 still missing [1] - The report alleges that Secretary of Homeland Security Christy Gnome delayed the federal response to the flooding for more than 3 days [2] - A new policy requiring the Secretary's direct approval of any DHS contract worth more than $100,000 is criticized for creating a bottleneck in disaster relief efforts [5][6][7] - FEMA sources indicate that Secretary Gnome did not approve the deployment of urban search and rescue teams to Texas until more than 3 days after the flood [8] - A $3 million grant dedicated to creating a state-of-the-art system for warning local communities about extreme weather was canceled [12] - Concerns are raised about the potential dismantling of FEMA and the federal government's role in disaster response [16] Leadership & Governance - Secretary Gnome is accused of prioritizing social media engagement over her responsibilities as a cabinet official [3][4][8][9] - The report questions Secretary Gnome's qualifications and actions, suggesting incompetence and a focus on "performative governance" [17] - The acting FEMA administrator is criticized for a lack of experience in emergency management and absence during the disaster [19][20] - A Senator's letter to Secretary Gnome demands the release of her plan for the current hurricane season, expressing concerns about the impact of the $100,000 approval policy [15][22]

Core Viewpoint - Verizon is committed to maintaining connectivity for customers during severe weather events through resilient infrastructure, specialized teams, and community support initiatives [1][2][11]. Network Resilience - Verizon's network covers 99% of populated areas and is designed to withstand severe conditions with backup power and redundant fiber routes [2]. - All macro cell sites have backup battery power, and over 1,000 mobile generators are on standby to ensure connectivity during power outages [2]. - The company provides real-time network status updates through its website and My Verizon app [2]. Crisis Response - Verizon has specialized teams and resources ready to support communities during crises, including satellite technology for maintaining connectivity when traditional networks fail [3][4]. - The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team, composed of former first responders and military members, has responded to over 1,500 requests from public safety agencies in 2024 and nearly 400 requests in the first four months of 2025 [6]. Technological Innovations - Verizon has launched the Verizon Frontline Network Slice, a dedicated 5G Ultra Wideband network for public safety, enhancing reliability and performance for first responders [10]. - The company is expanding its flood sensor technology in partnership with Hyfi to provide real-time data on flood risks, with plans to roll out in cities like Chicago and Miami [12]. Community Commitment - Verizon is expanding its disaster response initiatives, including partnerships with organizations like United Way and Habitat for Humanity to provide comprehensive support in 15 cities [14]. - The company has introduced the Disaster Resilience Prize in collaboration with MIT Solve to foster technological advancements that mitigate natural disaster impacts [13]. Retail Support - Verizon maintains a network of retail locations to assist customers in preparing for severe weather and recovering afterward, with updated information available online [15].