Tampa Republic

Congresswoman Laurel Lee, representing Florida's 15th district, has aligned with Congressman Vern Buchanan and 53 other House members to demand accountability from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This move follows reports that a FEMA supervisor instructed relief workers to bypass homes displaying campaign signs for President-elect Donald Trump during disaster assistance efforts.

Reports from within FEMA indicate that at least 20 homes with pro-Trump signs were overlooked by relief workers from late October through November. The supervisor allegedly claimed this political discrimination was not confined to Florida but extended to the Carolinas as well. The official reportedly stated, "senior leadership will lie to you and tell you that they don't know," while FEMA continues denying aid to storm victims across various states.

"The last thing Floridians should have to worry about after experiencing tremendous loss is whether or not political prejudice will hinder their ability to obtain government assistance,” said Congresswoman Lee. She criticized the alleged targeting of Republicans by President Biden's administration post-Hurricane Milton as "unacceptable" and contrary to FEMA’s mission of supporting all citizens in times of disaster.

Congressman Buchanan added, “FEMA has a responsibility to serve every American equally, regardless of political affiliation—especially in times of crisis.” He described the situation as a violation of FEMA’s mission and urged Administrator Criswell to ensure all affected residents receive apologies and necessary aid.

The letter addressed to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell was signed by Reps. Robert Aderholt, Brian Babin, Aaron Bean, Stephanie Bice, Gus Bilirakis, Lauren Boebert, Josh Brecheen, Vern Buchanan, Kat Cammack, Mike Carey, Buddy Carter, Dan Crenshaw, Warren Davidson, Byron Donalds, Jeff Duncan, Neal Dunn, Randy Feenstra, Drew Ferguson among others.

“Americans deserve better. In this country we protect all our citizens regardless of political affiliation," expressed the lawmakers in their letter urging swift action from FEMA.

The letter emphasized concerns over reports suggesting a directive for hurricane relief workers in Florida to avoid homes showing support for Trump. Allegations include bypassing homes due to guidance from a supervisor resulting in denial of needed assistance during critical recovery periods following natural disasters.

The signatories called for assurances that any families denied aid are contacted and provided with full assistance moving forward. They also requested information on measures being implemented within FEMA to prevent recurrence of such incidents and demanded responses on several key questions by December 14th.