FEMA director vows to request IG investigation into order to avoid Trump supporters’ houses

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell faced questioning from Congress regarding allegations of bias against Trump supporters within her agency. During her testimony before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Criswell pledged to request an inspector general investigation into orders that FEMA employees avoid homes of Trump supporters during relief efforts for Hurricane Milton.

Committee Chairman Scott Perry pressed Criswell on whether the ongoing internal investigation included officials above Marn’i Washington, the employee who issued the controversial order. Criswell maintained that the directive came from a lone employee and was not part of a broader agency policy.

Perry emphasized the need for an independent investigation by the inspector general, to which Criswell ultimately agreed. She acknowledged the unacceptable nature of the employee’s actions and committed to requesting the IG investigation.

The controversy stemmed from allegations made by fired FEMA supervisor Marn’i Washington, who claimed that she was being scapegoated by the agency for a broader policy of avoiding homes with Trump signs in Florida. Washington highlighted FEMA’s emphasis on prioritizing avoidance and de-escalation in potentially unsafe situations, which could extend beyond political considerations to include factors like unleashed dogs in urban areas.

Washington clarified that discriminating against individuals based on their political beliefs would violate the Hatch Act, but noted that some passionate Trump supporters had exhibited violent behavior. Despite these challenges, she maintained that FEMA’s primary focus was on ensuring the safety and well-being of both employees and disaster victims.

The unfolding situation underscores the complexities and sensitivities involved in disaster relief efforts, particularly in politically charged environments. As FEMA grapples with internal investigations and external scrutiny, the need for transparency and accountability remains paramount to uphold the agency’s mission of providing critical assistance to communities in need.

Anders Hagstrom, a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events, contributed to this article. For further updates and insights, readers can connect with Anders on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.