President Donald Trump is visiting Texas on Friday to assess catastrophic flooding that has killed at least 120 people.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been exerting more direct control over the agency, which President Donald Trump has talked about "getting rid of."

July 9 (Reuters) - U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called on Wednesday for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be eliminated in its current form, even as the disaster-relief agency deployed specialists and supplies to Texas to help respond to devastating floods.

Where in the world is the FEMA head? Agency leader hasn’t been seen in over a week sparking concern - David Richardson has made no public appearances or statements following his appointment on May 8

David Richardson hasn't made public appearances, statements or social media postings since last week's flood. Former FEMA officials say that's concerning.

The acting FEMA director's swaggering bravado might be welcome if he seemed dedicated to carrying out FEMA’s mission. But that doesn't appear to be the reason he was hired.

Conversations about the future of FEMA are under the microscope amid the recovery efforts following the Texas floods.

As historic Texas floods claim over 120 lives, criticism mounts over the federal emergency agency’s weakened capacity, new oversight rules, and uncertain future under the Trump administration.

The story comes amid Trump’s call to dismantle FEMA, leaving it up to the states to bear more of a responsibility for disaster response. CNN reported that within the agency, there are fears over its ability to respond as hurricane and wildfire season approaches.

Just weeks ago, President Donald Trump said he wanted to begin "phasing out" the Federal Emergency Management Agency after this hurricane season to "wean off of FEMA" and "bring it down to the state level.