Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, has called for answers and accountability following reports that a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supervisor instructed relief workers to bypass homes displaying Trump campaign signs during disaster outreach efforts in Florida. The alleged incidents occurred in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton and reportedly impacted at least 20 homes.
In a letter addressed to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Senator Britt expressed outrage, stating, “It is simply outrageous that any FEMA personnel, let alone a supervisor, would condition aid to victims based on their political views.” She acknowledged Administrator Criswell’s condemnation of the actions and the subsequent termination of the supervisor but stressed the need for further investigation.
As Congress prepares to consider multi-agency supplemental funding for disaster relief, Senator Britt emphasized the importance of ensuring that FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is administered equitably. “Any disaster funding provided by Congress must be made available to all Americans who are victims of presidentially declared disasters, and cannot be conditioned or delayed based on their political views,” she stated.
Britt, whose subcommittee oversees FEMA, has demanded detailed responses by November 15 regarding policies in place to prevent the politicization of aid. Specific questions include:
- What safeguards exist to ensure disaster relief is administered without political bias?
- Under what policies or circumstances could aid be withheld from specific homes?
- Have there been any other reported delays linked to political affiliation?
- Have any whistleblowers come forward with additional information?
- How many personnel were aware of the supervisor’s actions before media reports surfaced?
Administrator Criswell has condemned the alleged behavior and pledged to maintain nonpartisan and equitable disaster relief practices. Meanwhile, Congress will soon consider funding measures to support recovery efforts for victims of Hurricanes Helene, Milton, and other disasters.
The controversy underscores broader discussions about maintaining public trust in federal relief programs and ensuring impartiality in disaster response efforts
