BRADENTON BEACH, FL – Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan and Attorney General Ashley Moody held a joint press conference to discuss their efforts to uncover evidence of political discrimination at FEMA and demand accountability from Administrator Criswell. Buchanan and Moody provided an update on their work to ensure that FEMA’s services are delivered impartially to all disaster victims and root out corruption at the agency.
“It is downright unconscionable to deny relief to storm victims simply because of their political preference,” said Buchanan. “FEMA has a responsibility to serve every American equally—especially in times of crisis. That’s why I’m leading efforts in the House to demand answers from FEMA to not only ensure all bad actors are held accountable, but to ensure this never happens again. I applaud AG Moody for taking legal action against FEMA officials for violating the civil rights of Florida residents.”
“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,” said Buchanan.
“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. Withholding disaster relief aid for any American on the basis of political affiliation is reprehensible. Florida won’t let this blatant discrimination stand,” said Attorney General Moody.
Buchanan and Moody’s remarks followed reports that more than 20 Florida homes with pro-Trump campaign signs were intentionally bypassed by FEMA workers during hurricane relief efforts. The fired supervisor has also alleged that this practice of political discrimination was “not isolated” to Florida, but also extended to the Carolinas.
Buchanan recently led a letter co-signed by 54 House colleagues to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell demanding answers and accountability. Attorney General Moody is currently taking legal action against current and former FEMA officials over alleged political discrimination against Florida hurricane victims.
View Buchanan and Moody’s full remarks here.
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