The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informed lawmakers that an employee directed workers assisting hurricane victims to avoid homes displaying yard signs supporting President-elect Donald Trump. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell emphasized the agency's responsibility to reach out to survivors door-to-door to inform them about available federal resources.
Criswell revealed that the employee in question instructed about 11 staff members to steer clear of homes with pro-Trump signs. After reviewing evidence provided by her senior leadership team, Criswell agreed to terminate the employee. She stated that she does not believe this incident reflects broader cultural issues within FEMA but expressed support for an independent investigation to ascertain the extent of the problem.
During a House subcommittee hearing on FEMA's response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, lawmakers scrutinized the agency's actions, particularly concerning reports of political bias affecting aid distribution. While the terminated employee believed she was following agency directives, lawmakers stressed the need for accountability within FEMA.
Rep. Chuck Edwards highlighted challenges faced during the hurricanes, noting delays in FEMA's response following the disasters. Despite difficulties, Criswell commended the efforts of FEMA's 22,000 workers across six states, who worked tirelessly to assist survivors amidst misinformation circulating on social media.
Criswell assured lawmakers that steps were taken to rectify the situation, including sending a new team to reach out to homes previously overlooked. She reiterated FEMA's commitment to providing assistance to all eligible individuals and acknowledged the need to address misinformation hindering relief efforts.
