Trump Orders Creation of Review Council for FEMA, Citing Concerns of Political Bias

The order states there were concerns that FEMA used resources to support missions beyond its scope, including activities that ‘welcome illegal aliens.’

FEMA employees listen to President Joe Biden talk at FEMA headquarters in Washington on May 24, 2021. Evan Vucci/AP Photo

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 24 calling for the creation of a council to review the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), citing concerns over political bias within the agency.

The order states that FEMA’s handling of Hurricane Helene and other recent disasters has prompted the need to “drastically improve” the agency’s “efficacy, priorities, and competence,” and evaluate whether the agency’s bureaucracy hinders its ability to respond effectively.