FEMA is coming under intense scrutiny following Hurricane Helene, which has claimed over 200 lives. Several high-profile figures, including SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), have accused the agency of obstructing aid to storm survivors.
Musk took to social media, sharing reports from a SpaceX engineer who alleged that FEMA had interfered with the deployment of Starlink satellite internet, a vital communication tool for areas impacted by the hurricane. The report indicated that FEMA not only delayed the delivery of Starlink equipment but also required unnecessary escorts for relief shipments, effectively slowing down aid efforts in places like Asheville, North Carolina.
Rep. Gaetz echoed these claims, highlighting mismanagement at multiple levels of emergency response. He stated that many responders, including those from the Department of Defense, were left without deployment orders and were forced to wait in North Carolina without contributing to the relief efforts.
In a formal letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Gaetz questioned FEMA’s use of disaster relief funds. He raised concerns that money meant for aiding Hurricane Helene victims was diverted to assist illegal migrants, further exacerbating the crisis. Gaetz called for a full accounting of how FEMA has used its funds, especially as the number of hurricane fatalities continues to rise.
Mayorkas has admitted that FEMA is facing a budget crisis, revealing that $1.4 billion had been spent over the past two years managing illegal immigration. Critics argue that this funding shortfall has left FEMA ill-prepared to handle disasters like Hurricane Helene, putting American lives at risk.
As the outcry grows, many are demanding answers regarding the agency’s handling of relief efforts and the prioritization of resources in the wake of the deadly storm.
