JD Vance blasts ‘broken’ FEMA for holding up billions in hurricane relief

Vice President JD Vance criticized FEMA on Monday for delaying relief funds to Hurricane Helene victims in Virginia, North Carolina, and other states despite Congress authorizing billions of dollars for that purpose.

Vance, accompanied by Governor Glenn Youngkin, visited Damascus, near the Tennessee border, where he expressed his frustration with FEMA’s slow distribution of funds. He mentioned that only $47 million out of the allocated $4 billion had been disbursed, leaving area residents without essential flood insurance.

Vance highlighted the challenges faced by residents in obtaining temporary housing due to FEMA designating specific areas as ineligible for assistance. He emphasized the need for a more efficient federal response to the disaster.

Homeowners in Virginia impacted by the storm have received inadequate offers for rebuilding, with an average shortfall of $80,000 to $90,000 per structure. Governor Youngkin proposed a budget amendment to allocate $127 million for state disaster assistance.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper estimated the damage in his state from Hurricane Helene to be around $53 billion. Senator Josh Hawley suggested holding hearings with insurance companies accused of underpaying hurricane victims.

During his visit, Vance emphasized the need for a more supportive federal government for communities affected by the disaster. He questioned why FEMA was not aligning with the will of the American people to aid devastated regions.

Despite efforts to rebuild the community, Vance noted the lack of adequate support from federal agencies, urging for a more proactive approach in assisting those affected by the hurricane. FEMA representatives did not provide immediate comment on the situation.