NW Kentucky News

Following recent disasters and reports of alleged bias in relief efforts, the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability will hold a hearing to examine the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) response. The hearing, titled "Oversight of the Federal Emergency Management Agency," is scheduled for November 19, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. ET in the Rayburn House Office Building.

The committee, led by Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.), aims to scrutinize FEMA's efforts in delivering aid to those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Concerns have been raised after reports surfaced that a FEMA official instructed workers to bypass homes displaying campaign signs for President Trump.

Chairman Comer stated, "Millions of Americans were impacted by devastating hurricanes, and many are still seeking assistance and aid from FEMA to this day. Reports have now surfaced that a FEMA official recently instructed relief workers to avoid homes displaying support for President Donald Trump. Not only are these actions by a FEMA employee completely unacceptable, but the Committee remains deeply concerned that this is not an isolated incident at the agency."

Comer emphasized the importance of ensuring FEMA uses taxpayer dollars effectively and provides timely assistance. He added, "To ensure FEMA is fulfilling their mission and all Americans are receiving the assistance they need, the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability is taking immediate action, and we look forward to hearing directly from FEMA Administrator Criswell on the agency’s disaster relief efforts and taxpayer-funded operations."

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will testify at the hearing. The session will be open to both public attendance and media coverage and will also be available via livestream on https://oversight.house.gov/.