Trump Administration Denies Recovery Funds to Flooded Maryland Counties

The Trump administration has denied Maryland's request for emergency funds to aid Allegany and Garrett counties, areas severely affected by historic flash floods in May. Governor Wes Moore announced plans to appeal the decision, seeking $15.8 million in disaster relief from FEMA. The floods, which caused water levels to rise to a record 12.4 feet in Georges Creek, led to evacuations, damaged over 200 homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, and necessitated the rescue of schoolchildren by boat.

This denial contrasts sharply with the approval of $11.7 million in disaster assistance for West Virginia areas hit by similar disasters, a decision President Donald Trump celebrated on social media. The disparity has raised concerns among Maryland officials, including Republican state Sen. Mike McKay, who described the denial as a 'gut punch.'

Meanwhile, Del. David Moon, a top Democrat in the Maryland House of Delegates, is drafting legislation to mandate the redrawing of congressional districts in Maryland if other states engage in similar out-of-cycle redistricting efforts, a move seen as a response to President Trump's push for redistricting in Texas and other states to benefit Republicans.

In other news, the Maryland Higher Education Commission was warned of significant changes to the state's financial aid systems due to shifts in Pell Grant eligibility under the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' act. Additionally, Dr. Meena Seshamani, the state's new Health Secretary, has prioritized behavioral health in her first 100 days, though she avoided detailed responses on major health topics during a recent interview.

The article also touches on the Public Service Commission's role in balancing utility companies' interests with public needs, the growing influence of 'Democratic socialist' views within the Democratic Party, efforts to remove a segregationist's name from a local fountain, the ICE custody of a beloved Easton pastor, and Baltimore's ranking as the fourth most dangerous city in the U.S. according to U.S. News & World Report.