OPINION:
For weeks, we were told that former President Donald Trump was spreading baseless conspiracy theories when he claimed that the Federal Emergency Management Agency was playing politics with disaster relief.
The media, led by The New York Times, dismissed his statements as hyperbole, labeling them another example of Mr. Trump’s alleged divisiveness. Yet recent revelations have vindicated his claims. Here in Florida’s Pinellas County, site of dual damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton, our constituents have borne the brunt of government malfeasance.
But hurricanes don’t see red or blue districts, and neither should FEMA.
The Daily Wire reported that FEMA workers deliberately skipped the homes of Trump supporters during disaster relief operations. The fired FEMA employee who spoke to Fox News says this shocking practice is not an isolated incident. The former employee also said that bias was tolerated and encouraged in certain disaster relief efforts.
For families in Pinellas County and across Florida, this is more than a scandal — it is a betrayal.
The implications are staggering. Federal disaster relief is not just a bureaucratic function; it is a lifeline for families struggling to rebuild after hurricanes, floods and fires. When FEMA plays politics, it undermines trust in our government and leaves vulnerable communities to fend for themselves. These revelations demand immediate accountability and reforms.
FEMA’s troubling silence
FEMA’s initial response has been disturbingly evasive. While the agency repudiated the actions of the dismissed employee, it has attempted to distance itself from the incident by portraying this as an isolated occurrence — a rogue act that FEMA says does not reflect the broader values or practices of the organization.
This characterization, however, ignores testimony suggesting these practices were more widespread. By focusing blame on a single former employee, FEMA appears to be scapegoating one person rather than addressing the systemic issues that may have allowed such practices to continue unchecked.
This strategy may shield FEMA from some scrutiny, but it does little to reassure Americans who expect transparency and accountability. The public deserves a full investigation of how such practices could have occurred at FEMA and how the agency plans to prevent this kind of behavior in the future. Meanwhile, Congress has subpoenaed FEMA officials to testify about these practices, and we are left with more questions than answers.
Why were decisions about disaster relief influenced by political considerations? Which leaders at FEMA knew about this practice, and why wasn’t it stopped? Most importantly, how many families were left without aid because of this egregious abuse of power?
These are not just questions for FEMA to answer; they are questions to which every American should demand answers. Disaster relief is a core function of government, and it must be administered fairly and without bias. Playing politics with disaster response is not only unethical — it is un-American.
The human cost
In Pinellas County, we have seen, heard and continue to hear, often in raucous town halls, about the devastating impact of FEMA’s failure. Homes that should have been repaired remain in shambles. Families that should have received critical resources are still waiting for help.
For those affected, this is about survival, not politics. That aid was withheld because of political affiliation is a slap in the face to every American who believes in fairness and equality under the law.
As local and federal leaders, we are united in demanding answers. This issue transcends party because disasters do not discriminate, and neither should relief agencies. Floridians, whether they voted for Mr. Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris or anyone else, deserve better.
Florida’s lawsuit against FEMA
These revelations have led the state of Florida to take a bold stand. In response to the evidence of political discrimination at FEMA, state Attorney General Ashley Moody, with the support of Gov. Ron DeSantis, has filed a lawsuit against the agency, challenging the discriminatory practices that have denied Floridians the assistance they need in their most vulnerable moments. We fully support this lawsuit and join Ms. Moody and Mr. DeSantis in this pursuit in demanding answers and accountability to all levels of government for the people of Florida.
What must happen next
First, FEMA must fully cooperate with congressional investigations. The agency owes the public complete transparency, including releasing internal communications and directives related to disaster relief decision-making.
Second, we need whistleblower protections for FEMA employees who come forward. The brave individuals who have shed light on these abuses deserve our thanks, not retaliation.
Finally, FEMA must implement strict safeguards to ensure that disaster relief is distributed equitably, regardless of political affiliation. This includes independent oversight to monitor relief efforts and prevent future abuses.
Restoring trust
Our communities rely on FEMA in their darkest hours. The revelations about political bias have shaken that trust to its core. Restoring faith in this vital agency requires more than apologies and promises — it requires meaningful accountability and reforms.
This is not just a FEMA problem — it’s a government problem. When politics infect critical services, it erodes the public’s confidence in all institutions. As leaders, we must send a clear message: Disaster relief is a sacred duty, not a political weapon.
The people of Pinellas County and the nation deserve answers, justice and a FEMA they can trust. We will not stop until they get it.
• Anna Paulina Luna represents Florida’s 13th Congressional District. David Will is mayor of Redington Beach, Florida, and founder of the Home Rule Coalition.
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