WTF?! Trump pulls sick stunt on disaster victims - Pondering Politics

Summary

Jessiah discusses allegations that President Trump is withholding federal disaster relief from states with Democratic governors, specifically Colorado and North Carolina, despite bipartisan requests for aid.

Key Points:

Colorado Situation:

• Trump denied disaster declarations for major wildfires (Elk and Lee fires) and flooding that occurred in 2024
• The fires burned over 150,000 acres, with the Lee fire becoming the state's fifth-largest wildfire in history
• Total damage estimated at $27.5 million (expected to grow)
• Governor Jared Polis and the entire congressional delegation (both Democrats and Republicans) requested federal assistance, which was denied

North Carolina Situation:

• Hurricane Helene caused approximately $60 billion in economic damage, killing 108 people
• The state has received only 11% of typical federal disaster relief (about $6 billion)
• Governor Josh Stein emphasized the state's urgent need for more federal funding to match recovery needs

Political Context:

• Jessiah argues this represents partisan retaliation, contrasting Trump's approach with President Biden's unconditional support for Republican-led states during disasters
• Former Trump administration officials warned before the 2024 election that Trump previously withheld disaster aid from politically hostile states
• The denial affects both Democratic and Republican constituents in these purple/swing states

Jessiah characterizes Trump's actions as "morally inferior," "malicious and obscene," and a betrayal even of his own supporters in affected areas.