Former President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism for comments deemed “disrespectful” during a visit to flood-ravaged areas in Texas—remarks that many felt were insensitive in the face of widespread tragedy.
Devastation Across Central Texas
Flash floods in central Texas have claimed the lives of at least 129 people, with over 150 still missing as search and rescue teams continue their efforts. Torrential rains triggered the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically—reaching an alarming 26 feet within a short span—sweeping away mobile homes, vacation cabins, and vehicles as people gathered to celebrate Independence Day.
Authorities stated that the region saw a month’s worth of rain fall within mere hours, creating one of the deadliest flooding events the area has seen in decades.
Trump’s Visit and Fox News Interview
On July 11, Trump visited Kerrville, one of the worst-hit areas, to assess the damage and speak with affected families. Later, he appeared on Fox News’ My View with his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, where he was asked to share a message for those grieving loved ones.
“There can be nothing worse, losing a child,” Trump said. “Maybe they should’ve had bells or something go off. But it’s pretty dangerous territory when you think of all the times they have had this problem.”
His statement sparked backlash online, with critics labeling it tone-deaf and dismissive. The suggestion that warning systems might have prevented loss of life struck many as both insensitive and overly simplistic.
Surfer Analogy Raises Eyebrows
During his remarks to reporters in Kerrville, Trump attempted to convey the scale of the disaster, saying:
“Following a torrential downpour—the worst that anyone has ever seen—the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in less than 45 minutes, and I even heard it went well over 30 feet. There is one story, where one person said it had to be 60 feet at one moment.
This is like a giant, giant wave in the Pacific Ocean that the best surfers in the world would be afraid to surf.”
That analogy, likening the floodwaters to a surfable wave, didn’t sit well with many. Social media erupted with criticism, accusing the former president of trivializing a tragic event.
One user posted, “This makes me want to throw up,” while another remarked, “Trump’s out here describing floods like they’re a ride at an amusement park. Meanwhile, people are drowning.” A third sarcastically added, “I didn’t realize how terrifying it must have been until I realized that even surfers wouldn’t surf it!”
Melania Trump Expresses Sympathy
While Donald Trump’s words stirred controversy, his wife, former First Lady Melania Trump, offered a more measured tone during their visit.
“My deepest sympathy to all of the parents who lost beautiful young souls,” she said. “We are grieving with you. Our nation is grieving with you.”
Public Reaction Divided
Trump also said, “I’ve never seen anything like it,” during his tour of the disaster zone, emphasizing the scale of the destruction. But despite his attempt to show concern, many felt his choice of words and tone failed to reflect the gravity of the situation.
As the search for survivors continues, the public discourse around the former president’s comments remains heated—serving as yet another reminder that words, especially in times of crisis, matter deeply.