FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate Discusses Hurricane Irene Response, Funding Concerns

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate appeared on CNN's "American Morning" on August 31, 2011, to discuss the aftermath of Hurricane Irene and the agency's response efforts. Fugate praised the resilience of those affected by the storm, stating that "nobody that got hit with this flooding dodged a bullet" and that extensive damages and loss of life had been reported in areas surrounding the floodwaters.

Fugate also addressed concerns over FEMA's funding, acknowledging that the agency had less than $1 billion on hand and was reallocating resources from some projects to others. He emphasized that the agency's focus was on responding to immediate needs and supporting survivors from previous disasters, while delaying funding for permanent work from disasters that had not yet begun.

When asked about criticism from Representative Ron Paul (R-TX), who stated that FEMA was not a good friend to most people, hindered local efforts, and contributed to deficit financing, Fugate maintained that FEMA was doing its job in supporting governors and providing federal assistance to those in need.

Fugate emphasized the importance of a team effort in responding to disasters, including the involvement of local officials, volunteers, and the private sector. Despite concerns over funding, he stressed that FEMA was committed to supporting states and local communities impacted by the storm.

Key Takeaways:

• Hurricane Irene caused extensive damages and loss of life in areas surrounding floodwaters, with no one able to "dodge a bullet."
• FEMA had less than $1 billion on hand and was reallocating resources to respond to immediate needs and support survivors from previous disasters.
• The agency delayed funding for permanent work from disasters that had not yet begun.
• Representative Ron Paul (R-TX) criticized FEMA for not being a good friend to most people, hindering local efforts, and contributing to deficit financing.
• FEMA sustained criticism over funding, but emphasized its commitment to supporting states and local communities impacted by the storm.
• Fugate praised the resilience of those affected by the storm and the importance of a team effort in responding to disasters.
• FEMA's focus remained on supporting governors, providing federal assistance, and helping states and local communities recover from the storm.

Statistics:

• Less than $1 billion on hand at FEMA (as of August 31, 2011)
• Extensive damages reported in areas surrounding floodwaters due to Hurricane Irene
• Loss of life reported in areas affected by the storm

Sources:

• CNN's "American Morning" interview with Craig Fugate, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - August 31, 2011
• Representative Ron Paul's statement on FEMA, as aired on CNN's "American Morning" - August 31, 2011