WTF?! Trump pulls sick stunt on disaster victims - Pondering Politics [View all]

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.