NW Kentucky News

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer has raised concerns about potential political discrimination within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). During a hearing titled “Oversight of the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” Comer highlighted reports suggesting that at least one FEMA official engaged in discriminatory practices against supporters of President Donald Trump.

Comer emphasized the importance of FEMA using taxpayer funds effectively to provide timely assistance to disaster-affected Americans. He pointed out that these issues reflect a broader problem, which is the need for accountability within the federal workforce. Comer stated, "The Committee will work with the incoming Trump Administration to ensure accountability within the federal workforce," aiming to address employees who resist implementing presidential policies.

In his prepared remarks, Comer criticized Democrats for allegedly demonizing Trump supporters over nearly a decade. He noted, "For nearly a decade, Democrats—many of whom are in this room today—have demonized the millions of Americans who support President Trump."

Comer also addressed an incident following Hurricane Milton where a FEMA official reportedly discriminated against Trump supporters seeking aid. This official claimed on television that such actions were not isolated and suggested systemic bias within FEMA. Comer declared, "This is unacceptable, and Americans demand accountability."

He expressed concern over broader issues within federal agencies, stating that some employees might be planning to undermine Trump's agenda once he assumes office again. Comer asserted that current systems lack sufficient mechanisms for ensuring accountability among civil servants.

The hearing aims to investigate these allegations and explore measures to prevent future discrimination by FEMA officials. Comer concluded by expressing eagerness to hear from FEMA's Administrator about ongoing disaster relief efforts and strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future.