Publication of the committee's report or official statement

FEMA Probed Over Alleged Bias Against Trump Supporters in Helene and Milton Relief

Nov 19, 2024, 01:00 PM

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is under scrutiny following allegations that workers were instructed to bypass homes displaying signs supporting President-elect Donald Trump during disaster relief efforts after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused over 230 deaths across the Southeast. A former FEMA employee, who was fired over these allegations, claims she was "framed" and denies any wrongdoing. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has launched an investigation into the claims. The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, chaired by Representative James Comer, is also investigating the matter and has called on FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to testify on November 19 about the agency's response and the accusations of political bias. Several Republican lawmakers, including Representatives Laurel Lee, Aaron Bean, Pat Fallon, and Scott Perry, have expressed concern over potential discrimination, emphasizing that disaster relief should be provided to all Americans regardless of political affiliation. FEMA has denied the allegations, with Administrator Criswell stating, "We help all survivors, all people," and affirming that there is nothing in the agency's policies that would direct employees to bypass anyone based on political party. FEMA has reportedly sent a different team to revisit homes that may have been skipped.