FEMA accused of playing the victim after insisting criticism of Helene handling is 'dangerous'

SUMMARY

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has faced backlash after calling criticism of the agency's response to Hurricane Helene “dangerous.” In an interview on ABC’s "This Week," she warned that “false narratives” could hinder recovery efforts and affect employee morale, stating, “It creates fear in our own employees.” Critics slammed her comments, arguing that the focus should be on the victims rather than FEMA's feelings. The Biden administration has been criticized for its disastrous response to Helene, with the death toll surpassing 224, primarily in North Carolina. Former President Trump accused FEMA of obstructing relief efforts in Republican areas and claimed the agency blocked aid, which FEMA denied. Criswell dismissed Trump’s claims as “ridiculous,” stating the need to prioritize helping affected individuals.