Promise tens of millions of dollars on the spot. Do not consult Congress. Do not count cost. Do not worry about planning in advance. Spend as if the public funds were unlimited and take all the credit yourself.
Disasters are a political goldmine.
Declare as many disaster areas as possible. When caught in violation of law, remain calm. Voters hate a coward who shows weakness. Even when voters know you are lying, if you are well liked, they will prefer to believe you over your accuser. There will be some eruptions and bad press, but any crisis can be ridden out.