West Florida News

U.S. Representative Greg Steube has addressed a letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, seeking answers to questions left unresolved during her testimony before the House Oversight Committee. Administrator Criswell had committed to providing follow-up responses to Rep. Steube's office.

"FEMA is intentionally dragging their feet on providing answers to Congress in the remaining weeks of the Biden-Harris administration. Floridians are outraged at the discriminatory practices FEMA implemented against Trump supporters. The discrimination is now seemingly widespread, contrary to FEMA’s claims. I am committed to continuing full force oversight of FEMA as long as it takes to provide transparency and answers to my district," stated Rep. Steube.

Rep. Steube emphasized, "Considering the short period of time remaining for the Biden Administration, it is imperative that [Criswell] promptly respond to requests for information from Congress."

The letter seeks clarification from FEMA on several issues:

- The initiation date of the "avoidance" policy.

- Identification details of 13 FEMA employees directed to bypass homes of Trump supporters in Florida.

- Whether these employees have given sworn statements to investigators at FEMA.

Additionally, Rep. Steube's letter reiterates six specific inquiries regarding allegations that FEMA staff avoided homes with Trump signage in Florida, initially submitted on November 15th prior to a hearing where responses were not provided by FEMA.

Background information indicates that a FEMA employee was terminated after instructing staff members not to visit homes displaying support for President Trump while conducting disaster recovery operations in Florida neighborhoods.

Rep. Steube had previously demanded explanations about claims from this dismissed employee suggesting that such actions were consistent with an existing protocol at FEMA concerning properties with Trump signs.

During a hearing on November 20th, Rep. Steube questioned Administrator Criswell about these matters, and House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer announced receipt of whistleblower allegations accusing FEMA of discriminating against individuals with Trump campaign signs and withholding relief efforts.

Floridians who believe their homes were overlooked by FEMA can access resources through Rep. Steube's website or contact his offices for assistance.