A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supervisor accused of telling workers to avoid Florida homes with Trump campaign signs has been dismissed, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell confirmed Saturday.
Marn’i Washington, who was overseeing disaster relief in Lake Placid, Florida, after Hurricane Milton, allegedly directed her team to “not go to homes with yard signs supporting President-elect Trump,” a move Criswell called a “clear violation of FEMA’s core values.”
Directive Sparks Controversy and Community Backlash
The controversial instructions were reportedly issued in late October through a “best practices” memo advising workers to “avoid homes advertising Trump” and prioritize other residences.
Local officials and residents expressed outrage. Lake Placid Mayor John Holbrook stated, “There are no parties when we are recovering,” adding that political beliefs should remain separate from relief efforts. According to reports, about 20 homes displaying Trump signs were skipped by FEMA workers due to Washington’s instructions.
FEMA Reaffirms Non-Partisan Commitment Amid Fallout
FEMA, emphasizing that relief aid must be distributed without political bias, terminated Washington’s employment and referred the case to the Office of Special Counsel.
Criswell assured that steps would be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future, saying, “This employee has been terminated, and we have referred the matter to ensure accountability.”
Political Repercussions and Public Outcry
Washington’s actions have stirred political debate, with figures like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis condemning the directive as “weaponization” of federal aid.
Washington reportedly issued her memo following criticisms of the Biden-Harris administration’s response to Hurricane Helene, which had sparked frustration among Trump, VP-elect JD Vance, and impacted Florida residents.
