Manatee Review

Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan and Attorney General Ashley Moody addressed concerns about alleged political discrimination by FEMA. At a press conference in Bradenton Beach, Florida, they discussed efforts to ensure FEMA's impartiality in delivering services to disaster victims and demanded accountability from Administrator Deanne Criswell.

“It is downright unconscionable to deny relief to storm victims simply because of their political preference,” said Buchanan. He emphasized that FEMA must serve all Americans equally during crises. Buchanan stated his commitment to holding bad actors accountable and preventing future occurrences. He also praised AG Moody for her legal actions against FEMA officials accused of violating civil rights.

“In this country, we work for all Americans. Not Democrats or Republicans, but all Americans, regardless of political affiliation. I look forward to hearing back from FEMA and will not let up until we get to the bottom of this,” added Buchanan.

Attorney General Moody highlighted reports of homes with Trump signs being bypassed by FEMA workers during hurricane relief efforts in Florida. “When we heard reports of FEMA skipping houses in Florida that had Trump signs and flags, we took quick legal action to hold FEMA accountable," she said. "Withholding disaster relief aid for any American on the basis of political affiliation is reprehensible."

Reports indicate that over 20 homes with pro-Trump signs were intentionally ignored by FEMA workers in Florida. A fired supervisor claimed this practice extended beyond Florida to the Carolinas as well.

Buchanan recently led a letter signed by 54 House colleagues demanding answers from Administrator Criswell regarding these allegations. Meanwhile, Attorney General Moody is pursuing legal action against current and former FEMA officials related to the alleged discrimination against hurricane victims in Florida.