Wisconsin Leaders Unite to Criticize FEMA’s Relief Denial

Article Summary –

Wisconsin leaders from both political parties criticized the Trump administration’s decision to deny disaster aid to southeast Wisconsin after devastating floods, despite Governor Evers’ appeal following a record-setting rainfall in August that caused over $26.5 million in damages. While President Trump initially approved some assistance, FEMA denied further aid, leaving local communities to bear the financial burden, and prompting state leaders like Evers and Republican Assembly Speaker Vos to express disappointment and consider state-level action. Trump’s administration seeks to reduce FEMA’s role and funding, shifting more responsibility to states, which has intensified local officials’ concerns about managing disaster recovery costs.

Leaders in Wisconsin, across the political spectrum, have criticized the Trump administration’s decision to deny disaster aid to southeast Wisconsin communities following severe floods last summer. The Feb. 7 FEMA letter denied an appeal by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers for public assistance to Door, Grant, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties.

August storms inflicted over $26.5 million in disaster costs, according to Evers’ office, causing record rainfall and sewer overflows. Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District reported over 1,100 incidents of basement flooding. The Wisconsin State Climatology Office noted a new state record with 14.55 inches of rain in 24 hours in northwest Milwaukee, surpassing the 1946 record of 11.72 inches.

In a late August letter to President Trump, Evers reported more than 1,500 homes damaged or destroyed, three deaths, and others missing. Evers criticized FEMA’s denial as unsatisfactory amid ongoing recovery efforts.

“Efforts will cost tens of millions in taxpayer dollars, and it’s disappointing to see federal leadership turn their backs on Wisconsin,” Evers stated in a news release. Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos expressed disappointment with the federal response and voiced willingness to consider state options.

Wisconsin’s preliminary storm damage assessments suggested eligibility for federal aid, but while Trump approved part of Evers’ request in September, a FEMA letter in October argued further aid was unnecessary. Trump has considered cutting FEMA significantly, according to The Washington Post.

Hillary Mintz, Waukesha County spokesperson, acknowledged FEMA’s individual assistance for over 2,800 residents but noted $338,838 in flooding costs remain uncovered. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley criticized the lack of justification for the denial, stating financial burdens will fall on local governments.