‘Cell phones are canceled’: Presidential Alert sends internet into frenzy
On Wednesday afternoon, millions of cellphones across the nation vibrated when the Federal Emergency Management Agency tested the Emergency Alert System and sent its first "Presidential Alert."
» RELATED: 7 things to know about the 'Presidential Alert' test
The nationwide test began around 2:18 p.m. EDT and lasted about 30 minutes. Those who received the alert heard a tornado warning or Amber Alert as well as a text with the subject line of "Presidential Alert."
This marked the first test of the national Wireless Emergency Alert system, and the "presidential" alert would only be used in case of a real national emergency, according to FEMA.
Shortly after the buzzer sounded, many took to Twitter to post their reactions using the hashtag #PresidentialAlert. Several people responded with hilarious videos and memes.
well FEMA just walked right into this meme, didn't they
— Jeva Lange (@Jee_vuh) October 3, 2018
Presidential Alerts pic.twitter.com/ssW7MeaY2b
— Pete Blackburn (@PeteBlackburn) October 3, 2018
DID YOU GET MY PRESIDENTIAL ALERT pic.twitter.com/u3bP7jIf3q
— kelly cohen (@politiCOHEN_) October 3, 2018
just got the presidential alert pic.twitter.com/BP5jCgPcc7
— mak 👻 (@gvdswomans) October 3, 2018
When you get a text from Trump pic.twitter.com/Wj24vQOT5P
— Josiah Johnson (@KingJosiah54) October 3, 2018
Although the actual message read, “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed,” many inserted their own versions of the alert. One even mentioned Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane.
You can't make this up. pic.twitter.com/QzlV9jDtMB
— Fat Kid Deals (@FatKidDeals) October 3, 2018
Did everyone get this? pic.twitter.com/UurRByPc8l
— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) October 3, 2018
finally something we agree on pic.twitter.com/MCoXVjWZna
— Ryan Mura (@RyanMura) October 3, 2018
testing a very important alert system. please do not be alarmed. pic.twitter.com/NxN2GJX72a
— Clint Falin (@ClintFalin) October 3, 2018
Many joked that they would get rid of or destroy their phones in attempt to opt out of receiving messages from President Donald Trump.
Somebody was recording me when I got that #PresidentialAlert pic.twitter.com/VGkzgxzMsY
— WMack (@WMack) October 3, 2018
When you get that #PresidentialAlert pic.twitter.com/wHtXWJq3ee
— Dee👩🏾⚕️🧡💛💚 (@DeAnnA9891) October 3, 2018
HEY EVERYONE, cell phones are cancelled.
— Jennifer Chase (@MrsRob0to) October 3, 2018
We are switching back to beepers.
Send me your beeper numbers.👌
#PresidentialAlert pic.twitter.com/7IjOZnKen0
I didn’t receive a #PresidentialAlert. I opted out. Quit telling people they can’t. pic.twitter.com/y8keGLtb3k
— Chickie (@annefcav) October 3, 2018
On the other hand, some did not view the alert as a laughing matter. Some thought the alert was unnecessary and would be better served as reminders for deadlines like voter registration.
All I’m saying is if they have the ability to make a national #PresidentialAlert why can’t they make a national voter registration alert with a link that automatically registers you to vote?
— Lauren Hogg (@lauren_hoggs) October 3, 2018
Can someone tell me how it’s possible for this administration to send a text alert to 300 million people but can’t keep track of the kids they separated from their parents at the border? #PresidentialAlert
— Francis Maxwell (@francismmaxwell) October 3, 2018
Was this #PresidentialAlert necessary? pic.twitter.com/0NKtaBbOfX
— Late Brkng (@LateBrkng) October 3, 2018
Why do we a #PresidentialAlert like we don't already have TV, radio, and cellphone alerts already alerting us to emergencies. Just something not needed to make Trump feel important. pic.twitter.com/pRDoZA1xFX
— Gold Standard Ship (@AwesomeBamon) October 3, 2018
However, others believed the test was important and applauded the president and his administration for their efforts to keep the country safe and informed.
What is the problem with the Presidential alert? I think it is a good idea. If our country ever goes into a crisis we can find out about it right away. #PresidentialAlert
— Zachary Spearman (@ZacharySpearman) October 3, 2018
Thankfully all people will know they can receive these alerts when needed. NC/SC Hurricane a great example. Also urgent factual news if ever necessary. I applaud testing this system, & looking for errors. @POTUS @VP #PresidentialAlert
— PJ (@PDelegal) October 3, 2018
Not for nothing, but I have actual emergency management experience and I think the #PresidentialAlert is a good idea. #SMEM
— Christina Stephens 👩🏻💻 (@CEStephens) October 3, 2018
People opting out of the #PresidentialAlert are honestly so petty. Yeah i made fun of it (cuz i make fun of anything trump does) but its for serious emergencies. I think its a good idea tbh. But then again i might be speaking too soon......
— Julie ❤❤❤ (@Lil_Julie_Vert) October 3, 2018
And a few felt left out of all of the hoopla, because they said they didn’t even receive the message.
If you didn't get the #PresidentialAlert , you probably have an Obama phone 😂😂😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/ggFyKtG5LA
— 6’7-Eleven Inches (@LeBandzJames1) October 3, 2018
For the record, NOT getting the presidential text feels way eerier.
— Alex Baze (@bazecraze) October 3, 2018
Lol I didn't even get it #PresidentialAlert
— jere🇵🇸 🇱🇧 🇾🇪 🇸🇾 (@CantGuardJeremy) October 3, 2018
» RELATED: Here is why you may not have gotten the 'Presidential Alert' test
About the Author
Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.
