Key facts
- Extreme weather survivors are organizing into a political force in the US.
- The group advocates for improved disaster response and action on climate change.
- Survivors express frustration with FEMA's responsiveness and disaster aid processes.
- Some survivors are considering running for political office.
- Politicians are urged to listen to the concerns of extreme weather survivors.
A growing number of Americans affected by extreme weather events are organizing to become a political force, pushing for better disaster response and action on climate change. Survivors, who feel their numbers are rapidly increasing, are beginning to coalesce to influence policy and potentially run for office.
Sierra Kos, co-founder of Extreme Weather Survivors, noted that the group spans around 2,500 people across the US and that survivors are united on core issues. However, a recent meeting in Texas with gubernatorial and senate candidates saw only one candidate, Vikki Goodwin, attend, suggesting a lack of political pressure on politicians to engage with these communities.
Survivors like Kylie Nidever and Georgia Bishop have become advocates, sharing their experiences with lawmakers and expressing frustration with the slow and often inadequate response from agencies like FEMA. Many face challenges with insurance claims and temporary housing, with some having their aid applications rejected multiple times.
The shared experiences of dealing with disasters and bureaucratic hurdles are helping to unite survivors across the political spectrum, even influencing those previously skeptical of climate change. However, the term 'climate change' is often avoided in favor of 'extreme weather' to maintain inclusivity and avoid political divisiveness.