Three additional employees at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have been fired following an investigation into workers who bypassed Florida homes displaying Trump campaign signs in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Acting FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton confirmed the dismissals in a letter to House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, stating that the employees had failed “to meet our standards of conduct.”
The latest firings come months after Supervisor Marn’i Washington, who initially directed workers to “avoid homes” with Trump signs, was dismissed in November. Washington defended her actions, claiming workers were allowed to bypass homes if they felt “uncomfortable,” such as in cases involving “loose dogs.” Reports indicated that at least 20 homes were skipped, with FEMA records noting instructions like “Trump sign no entry per leadership.”
The newly terminated employees held higher-ranking positions within the agency. Hamilton clarified that while FEMA’s Office of Professional Responsibility found no systemic bias or top-level directive behind the incident, immediate supervisors failed to properly oversee their subordinates’ actions. “Thus, they have failed to meet my expectations of leaders in this organization and have been terminated,” Hamilton wrote.
In response to the controversy, Hamilton ordered additional training for FEMA staff to reinforce that political affiliation should never influence the distribution of disaster aid. The incident raised serious concerns over impartiality in federal disaster relief efforts, leading to backlash from lawmakers and the public.
Since returning to office, President Donald Trump has taken steps to overhaul FEMA, including signing an executive order establishing a council to review the agency’s operations. The order follows widespread criticism of the emergency response to Hurricanes Milton and Helene.
