FEMA Delays Under Kristi Noem Angered Republicans
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Kristi Noem faced nationwide criticism for her management of disaster assistance as head of the Department of Homeland Security, particularly due to a rule requiring her office to review all contracts and grants over $100,000, which delayed FEMA aid reimbursements.
- These delays frustrated state and local governments waiting for relief funds, exemplified by a $2.5 million wildfire grant in Northern California that had been pending approval since June of the previous year.
- Representative Kevin Kiley, a Republican, openly criticized Noem’s department for poor service to constituents during a congressional hearing, highlighting bipartisan concern over the stalled aid.
- FEMA, responsible for managing disaster response and recovery, has faced cuts and downsizing under the Trump administration, which has encouraged states to handle
