A FEMA official who told relief workers to skip homes with Trump signs has been removed from her position, according to a FEMA spokesperson. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is investigating the matter.
The unnamed FEMA official directed workers in Lake Placid, Florida, to "avoid homes advertising Trump" while assessing residents for federal aid. Internal messages obtained by the Daily Wire revealed this guidance was followed by workers from late October into November.
At least 20 homes with Trump signs or flags were bypassed, with workers leaving notes like, "Trump sign no entry per leadership," in government systems. This occurred during the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which struck Florida in October.
FEMA expressed that it was "deeply disturbed" by the actions of the official, calling it an "isolated incident." The agency clarified that it helps all survivors, regardless of political affiliation.
"We have removed the employee from their role and are investigating the matter to prevent it from happening again," a FEMA spokesperson told Fox News. The spokesperson did not confirm whether the official was fired.
The official's instructions were limited to Highlands County, which was devastated by tornadoes and flooding from the hurricane. This area, located in south-central Florida, strongly supported President Trump in the 2020 election.
DeSantis condemned the actions, saying his administration would investigate FEMA. He criticized the "weaponization of government" by partisan federal officials, vowing new leadership would hold them accountable.
Rep. James Comer and the House Oversight Committee also condemned FEMA's response. They expressed frustration that the agency did not immediately fire the official involved.
Donald Trump Jr. added his voice to the criticism, calling the incident "outrageous" and demanding a full investigation. He suggested that the people responsible should be removed from FEMA and the government.