A recent survey has shown that a majority of Americans, specifically two-thirds, are of the opinion that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) should not be responsible for providing housing to undocumented immigrants.
When looking at the responses from political parties, it was found that 51% of Democrats were against using FEMA money for housing undocumented immigrants, whereas 49% had a different opinion. On the other hand, a significant majority of Republicans, 80%, believed that the funds from the agency should not be allocated for this purpose, whereas 20% disagreed.
The poll took place from October 11 to 13 and involved 3,145 registered voters. This included 2,596 likely voters and 898 voters from battleground states. According to the poll, the margin of error for the total sample is +/- 1.8 points at a 95% confidence level.
The Republican party has been criticizing the Joe Biden administration, particularly Kamala Harris, for concerns regarding FEMA’s financial situation. Harris, who previously served as the vice president and is now running for the presidency, has been under scrutiny from Republicans.
During a contentious election season, the GOP has amplified claims that FEMA funds are being used for migrants. These allegations gained traction, particularly after Hurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc in Florida and other Southeastern states.
Trump has continuously asserted that federal emergency disaster funds were provided to undocumented migrants.
During a rally in Michigan, earlier this month, Trump accused them of stealing FEMA money, comparing it to a bank robbery. He further claimed that the money was being used to support illegal immigrants who are expected to vote for them in the upcoming election.
According to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, FEMA allocated more than $640 million towards migrants, funds that could have been utilized to address budget shortfalls.
“FEMA has exhausted its funding for the remainder of hurricane season, allegedly due to the allocation of funds by Kamala Harris for providing free benefits to undocumented immigrants. This action is seen as unacceptable and yet another demonstration of Kamala Harris prioritizing the interests of non-citizens over American citizens,” criticized Karoline Leavitt, National Press Secretary for the Trump Campaign.
FEMA clarified last week that there is no diversion of funds from disaster response needs.
FEMA’s disaster response efforts and individual assistance receive funding from the dedicated Disaster Relief Fund. It is important to note that the money allocated to the Disaster Relief Fund is solely used for disaster-related efforts and has not been redirected to non-disaster-related endeavors.
Earlier this week, around 65,000 residents in North Carolina’s Rutherford County found themselves in a difficult situation as FEMA workers were compelled to relocate due to a violent threat against them. This unfortunate incident occurred while the residents were already grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, struggling to clean up the mud and debris left in its wake.
