US Homeland Security Chief to Tour Western North Carolina

Mullin to discuss FEMA disaster relief efforts after recent hurricanes

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:36am

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U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin is scheduled to visit Western North Carolina on Tuesday, with plans to participate in several events focused on the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA's disaster relief efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Florence.

Why it matters

The visit aims to provide updates on the federal government's ongoing recovery and support efforts in the region, which was heavily impacted by the recent hurricanes. Mullin will be joined by other key officials to discuss the coordination between local, state, and federal agencies.

The details

Mullin's visit will include multiple stops and conclude with a roundtable discussion. He will be accompanied by U.S. Senator Ted Budd, U.S. Representatives Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore, FEMA Administrator Karen Evans, and Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought.

  • Mullin's visit is scheduled for Tuesday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Markwayne Mullin

The United States Secretary of Homeland Security.

Ted Budd

A U.S. Senator representing North Carolina.

Chuck Edwards

A U.S. Representative for North Carolina's 11th congressional district.

Tim Moore

A U.S. Representative for North Carolina's 7th congressional district.

Karen Evans

The Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Russ Vought

The Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

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What’s next

The roundtable discussion will provide an opportunity for local officials and community leaders to directly engage with federal authorities on the ongoing recovery efforts and identify any remaining needs or challenges.

The takeaway

This visit by the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security underscores the federal government's commitment to supporting Western North Carolina's recovery from the recent hurricanes, with a focus on coordinating disaster relief resources and addressing the long-term impacts on the region.