Emerald Coast Times

U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz has raised concerns about the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) potentially misusing funds meant for disaster relief. In a letter addressed to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Gaetz questioned whether $1.4 billion from the Disaster Relief Fund was diverted to aid illegal aliens instead of supporting Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.

According to Gaetz, whistleblowers have reported significant mismanagement within FEMA, which allegedly resulted in federal, state, and local responders being left without deployment orders during the hurricane recovery process. The congressman attributes this issue to what he describes as "Border Czar Kamala Harris’ open-border policies." He further criticized Secretary Mayorkas' statement that FEMA lacks sufficient funds for the current hurricane season.

Gaetz's letter emphasizes the need for accountability and clarity regarding FEMA's spending practices. It includes specific questions aimed at understanding how DHS and FEMA policies prevent emergency funds from being used on non-disaster-related activities involving illegal immigrants. The congressman also seeks information on how much of FEMA’s budget is allocated exclusively for American citizens versus noncitizens.

The situation follows reports that service members were deployed to North Carolina but remained inactive due to a lack of orders from FEMA. Additionally, there are claims that NGOs purchased airline tickets for migrants using FEMA funds, contributing to an already strained response effort in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Gaetz has requested answers from Secretary Mayorkas by October 11, 2024.