Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, offered rare praise for President Donald Trump’s administration on Monday, commending its swift response to the deadly storms that have recently devastated the state. Beshear acknowledged the federal government’s quick action in providing disaster relief following torrential rainfall that has claimed at least 12 lives. The severe storms brought widespread flooding, road closures, and power outages, overwhelming parts of Kentucky.
“I do want to thank Secretary Noem and the President, who have responded to all of our requests, turned around the declaration of emergency about as quickly as I’ve ever seen,” Beshear told MSNBC. “FEMA is with us here in the EOC, and they brought in resources, extra search and rescue teams. So really grateful for how they’re operating with us.” His comments stood in contrast to the usual partisan rhetoric surrounding disaster relief efforts. Beshear’s remarks underscored the efficiency of the Trump administration’s response—a point often ignored by Democratic officials hesitant to acknowledge the current president’s effectiveness.
This isn’t the first time Beshear has distanced himself from his party on key issues. As a Democrat governing a deep-red state, he secured re-election in 2023 by charting a moderate course, occasionally aligning with Republican leadership on economic and disaster relief policies.
As of Tuesday, Kentucky continues to grapple with severe flooding that has claimed at least 12 lives. The flooding, which began over the weekend, has caused widespread devastation, damaging homes, roads, and utilities across the state. Approximately 39,000 households remain without power, and numerous roads are still impassable due to high water levels. In Pike County, the city of Pikeville has been particularly hard-hit, with reports of extensive property damage, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Last year, the Biden administration and FEMA faced heavy criticism over their handling of disaster relief, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated North Carolina in September 2024. Residents in hard-hit areas like Barnardsville condemned FEMA for its slow and inadequate response, forcing many to rely on volunteers and local assistance efforts.
Trump and other political figures accused the Biden administration of prioritizing aid for illegal migrants over disaster victims by redirecting FEMA funds. Additionally, FEMA came under internal scrutiny after a supervisor in Florida was fired for instructing relief teams to avoid homes displaying pro-Trump signs following Hurricane Milton.