Congressional records or official legislative documents

FEMA Chief Deanne Criswell Addresses Allegations of Political Bias in Disaster Relief for Trump Supporters, Welcomes Investigation

Nov 19, 2024, 04:09 PM

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell has responded to allegations that some FEMA employees bypassed disaster relief for Trump supporters. During a recent congressional hearing, Criswell stated that there is no policy or procedure directing employees to discriminate based on political affiliation. She emphasized that FEMA's mission is to assist all disaster survivors, regardless of their political beliefs. The controversy arose from claims made by a former FEMA employee, who alleged that directives were issued to skip homes displaying support for Trump. Criswell confirmed that investigations found no evidence of such directives being agency-wide, attributing the issue to a single employee's actions. She has expressed openness to an investigation by the inspector general regarding these claims. Lawmakers from both parties have voiced concerns, insisting that disaster relief should not be politicized and that FEMA must remain focused on helping all Americans in times of crisis.