Elon Musk slams U.S. immigration spending, Trump suggests dismantling FEMA, and political tensions rise over migrant aid and disaster relief funding.
Elon Musk has criticized the U.S. government’s allocation of $59 million in federal funds, calling it “gross insubordination to the President’s executive order” and stating that the money would be recouped. The figure has sparked controversy, as officials have not provided clarity on its origin or details.
The New York City mayor’s office reported receiving $81 million in payments from the federal government for immigration-related expenses, with $59 million allocated toward housing costs and $19 million specifically for hotels.
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New York City is legally required to provide shelter under its right-to-shelter laws, historically using hotels for housing the homeless. However, with an influx of approximately 230,000 migrants since 2022, the city’s resources have been strained. It currently shelters 46,000 migrants, most of whom are families.
Biden Administration Under Fire
Musk escalated his criticism in a social media post, alleging that under President Biden, FEMA had diverted disaster relief funds to house undocumented migrants in luxury accommodations.
However, city officials denied the claims, stating that the government has paid an average of $152 per night for hotel rooms, significantly lower than the $400 to $1,000 rates of five-star hotels in Manhattan.
Uncertain Future for FEMA
The funding dispute comes at a time when President Trump has suggested dismantling FEMA, stating last month in North Carolina that he was considering “getting rid of” the agency. The administration has also launched a task force to conduct a full-scale review of FEMA’s role and effectiveness.
Republicans have criticized FEMA’s response to hurricanes Helene and Milton, arguing that the agency failed to provide adequate assistance. Controversy further intensified after a staffer was reportedly fired for instructing workers not to assist homes displaying pro-Trump signs.
Political Battle Over Emergency Response
Trump’s Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for his second term, proposes relocating FEMA under the Department of Interior or the Department of Transportation. It also suggests shifting the financial burden of disaster response from the federal government to individual states.
Hamilton, a former Navy SEAL and Republican congressional candidate, has emerged as a leading voice in reshaping FEMA’s mission. He has advocated for prioritizing border security over disaster relief, fueling further political debate.
With growing tensions over immigration spending and FEMA’s future, the political landscape is shifting rapidly. Whether the U.S. government will maintain its current approach or overhaul FEMA’s structure remains to be seen.
