The president also said he would sign a major disaster declaration for Texas as early as Friday afternoon and he spoke with Governor Greg Abbott on Thursday night about the state of the state. Abbott had earlier said he had requested the announcement during a conversation with the president.
Biden signed a separate emergency declaration earlier this week as the crisis unfolded, although there was a financial cap on the assistance the federal government could provide. The government is free to provide additional assistance rather than declaring a major tragedy.
Much of Texas has been caught up in blackouts and waterlogging, as state utilities were unable to increase demand, bringing snow and sub-freezing temperatures in the state unfavorable for such weather as a result of the devastating winter storms.
Hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning and other causes related to extreme weather have led to a number of deaths.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has faced a flurry of criticism this week for interrupting his trip to Mexico with his family, while millions of Texas are in crisis, apologizing for shortening a short trip after his decision came out in public.
