FEMA Faces Scrutiny Amid Allegations of Bias Against Trump Supporters

FIRST ON FOX — The House Homeland Security Committee is calling for interviews with three employees of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in response to allegations of “systemic bias” against supporters of former President Donald Trump. This inquiry follows the controversial remarks made by now-fired FEMA employee Marn’i Washington, who instructed relief workers to avoid homes displaying signs of support for Trump during recovery efforts after Hurricane Milton.

Congressional Concerns Prompt Investigation

In an official letter addressed to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Congressman Mark Green (R-Tenn.), Chair of the Homeland Security Committee, has requested interviews with three officials responsible for policy implementation in Florida—Washington’s assigned area. The individuals named in the letter include FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan, Deputy Region 4 Administrator Robert Ashe, and Chad Hershey, who leads FEMA’s disaster survivor assistance crew.

The letter highlights Washington’s recent claims, including her assertion in an interview with Fox News that she is being unfairly scapegoated for actions directed by her superiors.

Statements of Bias Raise Alarm Bells

Green’s letter is supported by fellow lawmakers, including Representatives Dan Bishop (R-N.C.) and Anthony D’Esposito (R-N.Y.), who chairs relevant subcommittees within the Homeland Security Committee. “Ms. Washington’s statement contradicts FEMA’s press release and points to a possibly systemic bias within FEMA against individuals that support President-elect Donald J. Trump,” they stated. The lawmakers expressed deep concern that if such a bias exists, Trump-supporting households may not receive adequate resources and support during disaster recovery, hampering their ability to rebuild after natural calamities.

Responding to the controversy, Criswell characterized Washington’s comments as “reprehensible” and a direct violation of FEMA’s core values and principles.

Washington Defends Her Actions

During a segment on “Fox News @ Night” with Trace Gallagher, Washington defended her actions, claiming, “I’m just simply executing, again, what was coming down from my superiors.” She stressed that the avoidance of certain homes was a part of a broader cultural approach within the agency, based on “community trends from hostile political encounters.”

This has raised questions about the agency’s stance on political neutrality, especially regarding how it supports communities in need during crises.

Calls for Further Accountability and Transparency

In the letter, Green urges FEMA to arrange interviews with Hershey, Ashe, and Samaan by week’s end. Sources informed Fox News that the Homeland Security Committee is preparing to request another transcribed interview concerning FEMA’s oversight soon.

If Washington’s claims hold weight and reveal a broader “policy” of discrimination in recovery efforts, Green indicates that the committee will pursue accountability at all levels of the agency.

FEMA’s Policy on Safety and Discrimination

Washington asserted that FEMA prioritizes “avoidance” and “de-escalation” in circumstances where staff members may feel unsafe, clarifying that this approach is not specifically targeted towards Trump supporters. She provided alternate scenarios, such as urban settings where dogs are left unleashed, which can also pose safety concerns for workers.

However, Washington also acknowledged that explicitly discriminating against individuals for their political affiliations would violate the Hatch Act. “Unfortunately, again, the passionate supporters for Trump, some of them were a little bit violent,” she remarked, reflecting upon the contentious atmosphere surrounding political discussions in the wake of the Trump presidency.

Upcoming Testimony Before Congress

Despite the unfolding controversy, Criswell is scheduled to testify before Congress on Tuesday. She will first appear before a House Transportation & Infrastructure subcommittee at 10 a.m. EST, followed by an appearance before the House Oversight Committee at 2 p.m. EST. Lawmakers are eager to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations and FEMA’s policies regarding disaster assistance and political affiliations.

Fox News’ Trace Gallagher and Melissa Summers contributed to this report.