House Republicans are calling for an investigation into accusations that FEMA workers bypassed Trump-supporting neighborhoods in Florida and North Carolina during disaster relief efforts. Allegations include instructions to avoid homes displaying Trump campaign signs and entire neighborhoods with pro-Trump messaging.
Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) and Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) addressed a letter to DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, urging a thorough review of FEMA practices. They cited reports that Marn’i Washington, a former FEMA supervisor, directed relief workers to skip homes in Lake Placid, Florida, with Trump-related signs.
Further reports allege that FEMA teams in North Carolina avoided areas with signs such as “Make America Great Again” and “Drain the Swamp.” Entire neighborhoods were reportedly overlooked if three or more such signs were visible, leaving residents unaware of available aid.
FEMA Director Deanne Criswell testified last month that the incident in Florida was isolated and insisted that FEMA does not engage in political discrimination. Criswell also confirmed she had requested an investigation into the claims.
Washington, fired over the allegations, has denied acting alone. She claimed that FEMA teams across both states engaged in similar practices and alleged that she was unfairly blamed for systemic issues.
Republicans argue these allegations raise serious concerns about fairness in disaster relief. They are pressing for a comprehensive investigation to determine whether political bias has influenced FEMA’s operations.
