Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has launched a significant investigation into the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following explosive whistleblower reports suggesting political bias during hurricane relief efforts. The allegations, brought to light by The Daily Wire, claim that FEMA employees were directed to bypass homes displaying Trump signs or flags while conducting relief work in Lake Placid, Florida after Hurricane Milton. This directive reportedly came from then-FEMA supervisor Marn’i Washington, who has since been dismissed from her role.
Governor Lee stated that his office, in collaboration with Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti, will investigate whether such political discrimination impacted Tennessee residents. Lee emphasized that FEMA’s purpose is to aid all Americans without prejudice. “These actions have eroded the people’s trust by failing to deliver desperately needed relief to all hurricane survivors,” Lee said. He also called for President-elect Trump to ensure the removal of any partisan officials when he assumes office.
Attorney General Skrmetti echoed the urgency of the situation, condemning the alleged actions as a betrayal of public service. “It is a moral abomination to abandon Americans during a crisis because of their political preferences,” Skrmetti stated. He committed to working with Governor Lee and the U.S. Department of Justice to secure the highest level of accountability for any confirmed misconduct.
The investigation comes after claims that at least 20 homes were ignored due to Washington’s directive, given both verbally and in writing. Such selective treatment has raised alarms not only in Tennessee but across other affected areas. Portions of eastern Tennessee, notably Roan Mountain, endured severe flooding from Hurricane Helene and reported delays in FEMA’s response, with some residents waiting nearly two weeks for assistance.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has since responded to the allegations, confirming Washington’s termination and calling her conduct “reprehensible.” Criswell stressed FEMA’s commitment to impartial disaster response, stating, “We take our mission to help everyone before, during, and after disasters seriously.”
According to several reports, the official behind the order was fired.
The repercussions of the whistleblower have been far-reaching. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a separate investigation by his state’s Division of Emergency Management. Additionally, the House Oversight Committee has expressed its intent to probe the incident, summoning Administrator Criswell to testify on November 19.
The incident also revealed something incredibly interesting.
Ben Shaperio’s Dailywire broke the story. This time the media didn’t ignore nor claim it was “misinformation.” They strangely reported on it and the government responded quickly.
