FEMA workers bypassed homes with Trump signs, watchdog report finds

A report from the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General has confirmed that FEMA relief workers intentionally bypassed homes displaying support for Donald Trump during Hurricane Milton recovery efforts in October 2024. The investigation substantiated allegations that workers made politically motivated decisions, with official records explicitly citing “Trump flag” as the reason for skipping certain properties.

The findings indicate that these actions violated both internal FEMA policies and the Hatch Act, a federal law that restricts political activity by government employees. Investigators documented 11 specific cases where workers bypassed properties for improper reasons, though insiders suggest the actual number of missed homes may be higher as many related survey notes were left blank.

The scandal, which was initially brought to light by a whistleblower, has led to the dismissal of FEMA Supervisor Marn’i Washington and three crew members. The Office of Inspector General also criticized FEMA for inadequate supervision and a failure to properly document interactions with survivors. A Department of Homeland Security official stated that federal disaster responses are intended to serve all Americans equally, regardless of political affiliation or yard signage.