The death toll from the Texas floods in the Hill Country continued to rise throughout the Fourth of July weekend.
TEXAS, USA — The Texas Hill Country was struck with historic, devastating floods this Fourth of July weekend with a death toll that continues to climb as the hours pass by the day.
More than 70 have already been declared dead, with many more still missing. Among those affected were campers, camp directors, vacationers, locals and more.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has proclaimed that the state would do everything in its power to recover the still-missing until there is no one still unaccounted for. Abbott also asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration, so even more resources could be administered to recovery efforts. Trump approved that ask on Sunday, and also said he would be in Texas sometime this week to visit the affected areas.
“We wanted to leave a little time,” ,” Trump said. “I wanted to do it today, but we’d just be in their way. Probably Friday.”
As the harrowing images started to come out from the rescue and recovery missions over the weekend, current and former lawmakers and politicians — along with various Texas celebrities, sports teams, Texas-based businesses, other Texas fixtures and, yes, Matthew McConaughey, too — took to social media to offer their condolences to those affected by the Hill Country floods.
Here’s what our lawmakers — past and present — had to say:
“I just signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County, Texas, to ensure that our Brave First Responders immediately have the resources they need. These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing. The Trump Administration continues to work closely with State and Local Leaders. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was on the ground yesterday with Governor Greg Abbott, who is working hard to help the people of his Great State. Our incredible U.S. Coast Guard, together with State First Responders, have saved more than 850 lives. GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS!”
“On this day of prayer, Laura and I are holding up our fellow Texans who are hurting. We are heartbroken by the loss of life and the agony so many are feeling. Those who have lost their precious children are facing a grief no parents should ever know. We are grateful to the first responders and volunteers who are working to find the missing and comfort the grieving at Camp Mystic and along the Guadalupe. We know our words cannot help, but we believe the prayers of so many Americans will.”
“The flash flooding in Central Texas is absolutely heartbreaking. Michelle and I are praying for everyone who has lost a loved one or is waiting for news — especially the parents. And we’re grateful to the first responders and rescue teams working around the clock to help.”
“This weekend, Texans are mourning the lives lost in the devastating flooding in Kerr County & across Central Texas, and we are all praying for the families affected. Joined @Sec_Noem, @GregAbbott_TX, @RepChipRoy, @TDEM Chief Kidd & others on the ground for a briefing on the rescue efforts & to ensure local leaders have the resources they need.”
“Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic. Today, I’ve spoken with Gov Abbott, Lt. Gov Patrick, the head of TDEM & President Trump. Multiple helicopters are performing search & rescue. President Trump committed ANYTHING Texas needs.”
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the disastrous flooding in Kerr County. The reports we are seeing — especially about missing children, including some from Dallas — are gut-wrenching. We are sending a Dallas Fire-Rescue squad to assist. I am in awe of all the first responders working under dangerous conditions to reunite families and loved ones, and I am praying for everyone’s safety.”