Trump Announces Formation of Review Council for FEMA, Voicing Concerns Over Political Bias
The directive raised issues regarding FEMA’s allocation of resources for missions beyond its designated role, including activities perceived as ‘welcoming illegal immigrants.’
On January 24, President Donald Trump enacted an executive order to form a council tasked with reviewing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), addressing concerns of potential political bias within the agency.
According to the order, FEMA has not adequately supplied vulnerable populations with necessary resources and support during crises, having committed nearly $30 billion for disaster relief over the last three years.
Additionally, the order pointed out “serious concerns of political bias” within FEMA, alleging that its resources were employed in support of activities outside the agency’s official remit, particularly those benefiting illegal immigrants.
“Notably, at least one former FEMA employee has claimed that FEMA supervisors instructed her to avoid the homes of supporters of Donald J. Trump for President,” the order noted.
“FEMA thus necessitates a comprehensive review by individuals possessing considerable expertise in disaster response and recovery, who will advise the President on necessary improvements or structural changes that would further national interests and enhance national resilience,” it elaborated.
The order proposed establishing a review council comprising relevant federal agency leaders and “notable individuals” from the private sector, to be appointed by Trump. The council will be jointly led by the secretaries of homeland security and defense.
Trump instructed the council to convene its inaugural public meeting within 90 days and submit a report assessing FEMA’s disaster response over the previous four years.
The council will also assess FEMA’s capacity to operate as a support agency providing additional federal assistance and recommend reforms in alignment with national interests, pursuant to the order.
This executive order follows Trump’s visit to areas in western North Carolina on January 24 that were severely impacted by Hurricane Helene last year. The president has indicated he may consider disbanding FEMA.
“I believe FEMA is ineffective. When facing a crisis like this … the state should manage the situation without unnecessary delays from FEMA,” the president added.
Trump pledged to provide direct aid from the federal government to North Carolina to ensure they could “recover bigger, better, and stronger than ever.” He mentioned that federal aid would be disbursed immediately to facilitate infrastructure repairs.
North Carolina was one of the states hardest hit by Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm that struck the southern United States in late September 2024.
Moreover, the U.S. Small Business Administration has approved over $213 million in low-interest loans for affected individuals, offering 0% interest for the first year, according to the agency.
FEMA reported that nearly 13,000 households in western North Carolina utilized its short-term sheltering program, which provides hotel rooms for displaced individuals as they seek permanent housing solutions. The agency conducts bi-weekly reviews to ensure that the rooms are occupied by those in need.
Jacob Burg contributed to this report.
