In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, whistleblowers within FEMA have come forward with alarming accusations about the agency’s response to the disaster. U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) revealed that he has been in contact with several whistleblowers who have raised concerns regarding mismanagement and inefficiency in FEMA’s handling of relief efforts.
Gaetz’s letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas outlines significant problems, stating, “My office has been in contact with whistleblowers in numerous emergency-management functions at the federal, state, and local levels.” He emphasized that these issues included wasted taxpayer funds and failure to deploy resources effectively. Reports indicated that many Department of Defense service members have
been stationed in North Carolina, waiting for FEMA’s orders.
The letter also criticized FEMA for delaying pre-disaster aid, which has worsened the emergency response efforts. “FEMA pre-disaster aid was withheld, exacerbating the emergency,” Gaetz wrote, drawing attention to the agency’s failures. Whistleblowers also reported that FEMA employees were housed in hotels while waiting for orders, which some view as mismanagement of resources.
Mayorkas recently acknowledged the financial difficulties facing FEMA, stating that the agency may not have enough funds to last through the current hurricane season. “FEMA does not have the funds to make it through the season,” he said, which raises concerns about the agency’s ability to respond effectively to future disasters.
Critics argue that FEMA’s funding issues stem from significant allocations meant to support illegal immigrants. In 2023 and 2024, FEMA has directed millions toward humanitarian services for noncitizens, raising questions about the agency’s priorities during disaster response efforts.
During a rally, former President Donald Trump condemned the agency’s handling of hurricane relief, criticizing Kamala Harris for her management of FEMA resources. “Kamala spent all her FEMA money on housing for illegal migrants,” he stated, underscoring the frustrations surrounding FEMA’s operations.
