Kerrville residents say President Trump’s visit offered unity and support after a flash flood left over 100 dead and many missing.

Trump Brings National Attention to Devastated Texas Town

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived in Kerrville, Texas, on Friday, just six days after a catastrophic flash flood swept through the region. The disaster, caused by the Guadalupe River surging more than 22 feet in mere hours, claimed at least 103 lives and left about 160 people missing. The president and first lady met with grieving families and toured the devastated area to assess the damage firsthand.

Locals waited for hours in the sweltering Texas heat to see the president’s motorcade, with many expressing that Trump’s compassion brought much-needed hope to the small community. Residents said the visit marked an important step in Kerrville’s healing process, helping the town feel seen and supported by the nation at large.

Aliz Tribes, who works at a local rehabilitation hospital, called Trump’s visit a unifying moment. “Our country needs to pull together right now and not point fingers at who's right or wrong — but to come here and help us and rebuild our community,” she said, describing the president’s presence as “very heartfelt.”

Community Finds Strength and Reassurance

Larenda Boyd, a longtime Kerrville resident, explained that Trump’s arrival reassured locals they were not alone in their grief. She noted the comfort in knowing that the administration would ensure all necessary resources for recovery and rebuilding. “He’s gonna make sure we have the resources we need to rebuild and the support,” Boyd said. “That is the president I want. That’s what I voted for.”

Chris and Judy Johnson, residents who have witnessed previous floods, agreed that the timing of the president’s visit was just right—demonstrating real concern without interfering with rescue efforts. “It’s a big, strong move that lets everybody know that he cares,” said Chris Johnson, while Judy Johnson emphasized the importance of hearing, “We’re praying for you,” from the president.

At a roundtable with Governor Greg Abbott and officials, Trump acknowledged the pain facing the community: “We’re filled with grief and devastation. It’s the loss of life, and unfortunately, they’re still looking. My administration’s doing everything in its power to help Texas.”

Local volunteer Brock Semingson and church volunteer Gloria Neel both emphasized that Trump’s presence inspired hope. Neel, who spent hours handing out food and water before waiting in the heat to see the president, said, “We’re very privileged to have him... to come see us. Let us know that he does care.”

Unity and Leadership in a Time of Crisis

Many Kerrville residents described the visit as more than a political gesture, instead seeing it as a demonstration of strong leadership and unity. Sarah Stewart summed up the community’s mood: “We need good leadership at a time like this. That’s important. And people want to rally around something that affects us all.”

For a community facing unimaginable loss, President Trump’s visit signified that they were not alone. As Kerrville begins the long road to recovery, residents say the national attention and support are vital for healing and rebuilding lives.