"Trump Considers Declaring Emergency"... FEMA Gains Authority to Exercise Emergency Powers

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Reports have emerged that U.S. President Donald Trump is considering declaring a national emergency in relation to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 12th (local time), according to the American political magazine The Hill, President Trump mentioned the Stafford Act during a summit with the Irish Prime Minister, raising the possibility of declaring a state of emergency. He told reporters, "There are things I can do," adding, "I can exercise emergency powers through the Stafford Act."

When asked if he would declare it that day, he said, "I don't want to talk about that now," but also mentioned, "I might do it someday."

The Stafford Act is a law designed to allow the federal government to provide orderly and systematic support to local governments when natural disasters occur to assist American citizens. Through this law, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can utilize resources to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Additionally, President Trump mentioned that he is considering executive orders to support individuals and businesses affected by COVID-19.

White House officials also viewed the possibility of declaring a state of emergency as high. The Hill cited multiple sources who believed that President Trump is seriously considering declaring a state of emergency.

However, there is also speculation that President Trump may hesitate to declare a state of emergency, as he has expressed optimistic views about COVID-19 several times before.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.