House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has sounded the alarm over allegations that a FEMA contractor pressured a disabled veteran’s family in Georgia to remove pro-Trump signs from their property, reportedly claiming that FEMA supervisors view Trump supporters as “domestic terrorists.” The incident, revealed by a whistleblower, has sparked outrage and raised questions about potential political bias within the federal agency.
According to Comer, the incident occurred in early October and left the elderly homeowners, already vulnerable in the aftermath of a disaster, feeling coerced into compliance. Fearing their aid could be jeopardized, they removed the signs. Despite their compliance, Comer claims FEMA has yet to return to assist the family. “This took place not in Florida, but Georgia,” Comer emphasized, calling the incident a troubling sign of broader issues within FEMA.
The incident adds fuel to the growing scrutiny of FEMA’s disaster relief operations. Comer opened a hearing this week, pledging to investigate whether this case reflects a systemic problem within the agency. While no direct evidence ties FEMA leadership to the alleged bias, Comer hinted at a possible cultural issue within the organization, which he described as part of a “rogue” federal workforce undermining elected officials’ policies.
“In the wake of Hurricane Milton, at least one FEMA official engaged in political discrimination against supporters of President Trump,” Comer said during the hearing. He further alleged that FEMA staff treated homes of Trump supporters with disdain, likening them to houses with “vicious dogs.”
The controversy isn’t confined to Georgia. Earlier this month, reports emerged that a FEMA supervisor, Marn’i Washington, instructed relief teams in Florida to avoid homes displaying pro-Trump signs during Hurricane Milton recovery efforts. This directive allegedly led to 20 homes being bypassed for assistance. FEMA has since terminated Washington and launched an internal investigation.
Florida’s Attorney General, Ashley Moody, has filed a lawsuit against FEMA, accusing the agency of civil rights violations by selectively withholding disaster relief from Trump supporters. Backed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the lawsuit seeks compensation for affected homeowners and accountability from FEMA.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell appeared before Congress to address the claims, denying widespread bias but confirming the isolated Florida incident. She pledged cooperation with an Inspector General investigation to ensure transparency.
Meanwhile, Congress debates a $98 billion disaster relief proposal, with Republicans demanding safeguards to prevent political bias in FEMA operations. Comer’s committee is set to continue its probe, determined to ensure disaster relief is administered fairly and without prejudice.
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