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The federal role during a disaster declared under the Stafford Act primarily involves assisting state and local governments by providing additional resources, support, and funding necessary for effective disaster response and recovery. The Stafford Act is designed to strengthen the capacity of state and local governments to deal with the aftermath of disasters, recognizing their primary responsibility in managing these situations.

The federal government steps in to support and supplement the efforts of state and local authorities when their resources are overwhelmed. This assistance can come in various forms, including financial aid, logistical support, and the provision of federal personnel and equipment. Ultimately, this collaborative approach enables a more effective and coordinated response to the needs arising from the disaster, ensuring that the recovery process is swift and organized.

The emphasis is on collaboration rather than control; the primary management of the disaster response rests with state and local entities. Therefore, the role of the federal government as outlined in the Stafford Act is fundamentally to enhance and support the capabilities of those on the ground facing the disaster.