Trump Explodes at Reporter During Texas Flood Visit, Labels Question ‘Evil’

 

 Former President Donald J. Trump visited the flood-stricken town of Kerrville on Friday to tour the devastation caused by historic rainfall and offer support to local communities. But the focus of the visit quickly shifted from flood relief to fiery rhetoric when Trump lashed out at a journalist who questioned the timing and tone of his response to the disaster.

The confrontation occurred during a brief press conference held near the banks of the Guadalupe River, where floodwaters recently surged over 25 feet, displacing hundreds of residents and causing widespread destruction to homes, roads, and businesses. Federal and state officials are still tallying the damage, but early estimates place the loss at more than $2 billion.

"A Total Disaster"

Wearing a red “Save America” cap and flanked by Texas Governor Rick McAllister and FEMA representatives, Trump began the press event with somber remarks.

“This is a terrible tragedy. Just horrible what’s happened here,” Trump said. “The people of Texas are strong, and they will recover. We’re going to make sure the support they need is there. I’ve spoken with great people — first responders, families, veterans. They’ve been amazing.”

However, the mood quickly soured when Kaitlyn Reed, a national correspondent for The New Herald, asked whether Trump believed he acted quickly enough in urging federal assistance, given that several counties had already declared a state of emergency three days before he commented publicly.

“Mr. Trump, critics say your response came late, and that while families were being evacuated, you were posting about golf scores and hosting private events. What would you say to those who feel abandoned?” she asked.

Trump’s demeanor immediately changed. He glared at Reed and, in a raised voice, responded:

“That’s such a nasty, disgusting question. And you’re a disgrace for even asking it. People like you are the real problem. You’re not reporting, you’re doing propaganda. Evil. Just evil,” he said, pointing a finger toward Reed. “While patriots are suffering, you want to play politics? Shame on you.”

Silence, Then Applause

The outburst stunned many in attendance, including local volunteers and journalists who had gathered for the press availability. For a moment, silence hung in the humid Texas air — before a small group of Trump supporters standing nearby broke into applause.

Reed attempted to follow up, but Trump waved her off, stating, “We don’t need fake news here. We need solutions.”

Reed later posted on social media that she stood by her question, writing, “Journalism means asking tough questions — even when it’s uncomfortable. I will continue to do that.”

Her network issued a brief statement supporting her conduct and characterizing Trump’s comments as “inappropriate and unbecoming of a public figure.”

Mixed Reactions

The incident quickly trended online, drawing sharp criticism from Democrats and media watchdogs, while many conservatives rallied behind Trump, claiming he had every right to defend himself from “gotcha journalism.”

Senator Alicia Granger (D-CA) tweeted, “Calling a journalist ‘evil’ for asking a legitimate question about disaster response timing is chilling. Trump continues to attack the press instead of accepting responsibility.”

Conversely, Rep. Jason Holt (R-FL) praised Trump’s bluntness. “The media’s obsession with optics over outcomes is exactly what Trump called out. He’s there helping, and they’re nitpicking tweets. Ridiculous.”

The Biden administration declined to comment directly on the exchange, but White House Press Secretary Maya Chen said in a briefing, “When Americans are hurting, leadership should be focused on unity and compassion. That’s the standard the President holds himself to.”

The Disaster at Hand

As the political firestorm brewed, local officials continued grappling with the immense task of recovery. Floodwaters have begun to recede in Kerr County, but dozens of families remain in temporary shelters. Power outages persist in some rural areas, and search crews are still looking for missing persons.

Governor McAllister confirmed that nearly 200 National Guard troops are deployed to assist in debris clearing, search operations, and infrastructure assessment.

“Our priority remains saving lives and restoring communities. We thank everyone — including President Trump — for bringing attention to the needs here,” the governor said, carefully avoiding comment on the press confrontation.

A Pattern of Conflict

This is not the first time Trump has clashed with journalists during crisis situations. During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, he famously sparred with reporters during White House briefings, accusing them of sensationalism and bias. In 2020, he told a reporter asking about testing shortages to “ask China,” a remark widely criticized as racially charged.

Media analysts say the latest outburst fits Trump’s long-standing narrative of portraying the press as an adversary rather than a conduit for accountability.

“Trump thrives on confrontation. When pressed, he deflects by discrediting the messenger,” said Dr. Anita Berger, a political communication professor at Georgetown University. “It’s effective with his base, but it erodes public trust in journalism.”

What Comes Next

Despite the controversy, Trump’s team is doubling down. His spokesperson, Natalie Cook, defended the former president in a statement: “President Trump traveled to Texas when it mattered. He spoke with survivors, he offered resources, and he stood up to another activist pretending to be a reporter. That’s leadership.”

Trump is scheduled to attend a fundraising dinner in Dallas on Saturday before heading to Arizona for a campaign rally. Meanwhile, Reed has been invited to appear on several news programs to discuss the exchange.

As Texas begins the long road to recovery, many locals expressed frustration that politics overshadowed the dire situation on the ground.

“We lost neighbors, homes, everything,” said Maria Vasquez, a 42-year-old resident whose family was rescued from their roof. “I don’t care what Trump says to a reporter. I care about whether we’ll have clean water next week.”