Oversight Panel Questions FEMA Chief on Trump Home Policy

(DailyVantage.com) – The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability has launched an investigation into FEMA following allegations that a federal employee instructed relief workers to avoid assisting Trump supporters in Florida after recent hurricanes. Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) announced the inquiry after The Daily Wire reported that whistleblowers claimed a now-dismissed FEMA supervisor, Marn’i Washington, directed relief workers to bypass homes with pro-Trump signs or flags in Lake Placid, Florida.

Comer formally requested that FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell testify before Congress on November 19. In his letter, Comer stressed the importance of FEMA’s mission to provide aid impartially. “This hearing will address FEMA’s response to recent major natural disasters, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and allow us to investigate disturbing reports that a FEMA official ordered relief workers to skip hurricane-impacted homes displaying support for President Trump,” Comer wrote.

The whistleblowers claimed that Washington’s instructions were issued both verbally and through a group chat used by FEMA’s relief team, resulting in around 20 homes being passed over. The committee’s investigation will assess how such directives were implemented and why FEMA’s oversight failed to prevent this biased treatment.

Criswell responded promptly, confirming that Washington had been fired. In a statement, she emphasized FEMA’s commitment to neutrality, declaring, “This employee’s conduct was reprehensible and completely counter to FEMA’s mission and values, which mandate helping people of all backgrounds, regardless of political affiliation.” She added that the case had been referred to the Office of Special Counsel for further investigation, promising to enforce stronger measures to prevent future incidents.

The alleged incident has sparked bipartisan criticism, with multiple lawmakers expressing their concerns. Senators Katie Britt (R-AL) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) announced their own inquiries, with Hawley stating that FEMA’s actions “must be investigated to ensure accountability.” Britt added, “Every American has the right to expect equal treatment from their government, especially during times of crisis.”

The upcoming hearing is likely to scrutinize not only FEMA’s handling of these specific events but also the agency’s internal processes for oversight and accountability, particularly in politically charged environments. As more details emerge, the committee’s investigation could reveal broader issues within FEMA and potentially lead to additional reforms in disaster relief protocols.

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