Hochul irate after trump denies new york disaster aid for winter snow

Hochul Irate After Trump Denies New York Disaster Aid for Winter Snow

July 3, 2026
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Trump Denies New York Disaster Aid After Historic Blizzard, Hochul Vows to Keep Fighting

Gov. Kathy Hochul criticized President Donald Trump after his administration denied New York’s request for a major disaster declaration following February’s historic blizzard, saying the state will continue pursuing federal aid.

Albany, NY – President Donald Trump has denied New York‘s request for a major disaster declaration following February’s historic blizzard, prompting criticism from Gov. Kathy Hochul, who said the state should not have to shoulder the recovery costs alone.

In a statement posted Thursday on social media, Hochul said the denial leaves New Yorkers paying for emergency response efforts despite what she described as a historic winter storm.

Hochul responds to denial

“Donald Trump just denied New York’s request for a major disaster declaration after February’s historic blizzard,” Hochul wrote.

“Our first responders showed up when New Yorkers needed them most. Instead of having their backs, the President is leaving New Yorkers to foot the bill,” she said. “We’ll keep fighting for every federal dollar we’re owed.”

The request stems from the February 22-23 blizzard, a powerful nor’easter that dropped 19.7 inches of snow in Central Park, making it the ninth-largest snowfall in the park’s history. Parts of Long Island received more than 30 inches of snow, while hurricane-force wind gusts caused whiteout conditions, widespread flight cancellations, travel bans, and coastal flooding.

Disaster declaration denied

The February storm followed another significant winter event on January 25 that produced 11.4 inches of snow in Central Park, setting a daily snowfall record and disrupting transportation across the region.

A major disaster declaration allows states to seek reimbursement through FEMA for eligible emergency response and recovery costs. The Trump administration has not publicly explained why New York’s request was denied.

Key Points

  • President Donald Trump denied New York’s request for a major disaster declaration.
  • Gov. Kathy Hochul said the state will continue pursuing federal reimbursement.
  • February’s blizzard brought nearly 20 inches of snow to Central Park and widespread disruptions across the region.

Related: New York, Kathy Hochul, Donald Trump, FEMA, Long Island, major disaster declaration, February blizzard

Shore News Network

Shore News Network

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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