House Oversight calls on FEMA director to testify after official tells workers to avoid homes with Trump signs
SUMMARY
The House Oversight and Accountability Committee has launched an investigation into FEMA following a report that a FEMA official instructed workers to avoid homes displaying Trump campaign signs in Florida during hurricane relief efforts. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., requested FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell testify regarding the incident, which was revealed after Governor Ron DeSantis announced his own state investigation. FEMA confirmed the employee responsible had been fired and the matter referred to the Office of Special Counsel. The agency expressed shock, calling the incident an isolated one, emphasizing that FEMA’s mission is to assist all survivors regardless of political affiliation. "This employee had no authority and was given no direction to tell teams to avoid these homes," a FEMA spokesperson stated. The incident follows reports of FEMA's relief efforts for hurricanes Helene and Milton, which affected Florida residents of all political leanings.
