Rep. Troy Carter Statement on Saving Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, Despite Trump Admin’s Efforts to Cut Hurricane Forecasting Data

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

“Today, I am pleased to report that the Trump Administration has heeded our warnings and reversed course on its plan to cut crucial hurricane forecasting satellite data — a decision that would have been disastrous for Louisiana and the entire Gulf Coast.

“As many recall, I sent letters directly to President Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem, making clear how reckless this proposal was and the grave harm it would cause to states like Louisiana — where hurricanes don’t just test our levees, but our very livelihoods and lives. Every tool we have to forecast, track, and prepare for these storms is not optional. It is essential.

“The Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) provides unique, irreplaceable data, including nighttime and rapid‑intensification monitoring, that helps forecasters “see under the hood” of a storm. Losing this capability — especially at the height of hurricane season — would have put millions of lives and billions in property at greater risk.

“I am proud that our advocacy, alongside meteorologists, local leaders, and federal partners, helped keep this vital data flowing. But the fight does not stop here. I remain equally committed to convincing the Trump Administration to abandon any thoughts of dismantling FEMA — another cornerstone of our nation’s disaster preparedness and response that Louisiana depends on when storms strike.

“This is a victory for science, safety, and the people of Louisiana. I will continue to stand against any reckless cuts to NOAA, the National Weather Service, or FEMA, because protecting our citizens must always come before politics or short‑sighted cost‑cutting."

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