March 5, 2026/Media, Press

REMINDER: Whatley Said There’s “Nobody Better” to Lead DHS Than Kristi Noem, Refused To Denounce Her Directing FEMA Aid To Florida Political Donor Over Helene Victims

 

As Kristi Noem is replaced as the Secretary of Homeland Security, here’s a reminder that DC insider and “recovery czar” Michael Whatley loyally stood by her as they failed to deliver desperately needed federal relief to Western North Carolina.

  • Whatley refused to denounce Kristi Noem fast-tracking FEMA disaster relief to her Florida political donor while Helene victims waited for relief.

 

  • Whatley claimed Noem was doing a “great job” and her leadership was “absolutely critical” in terms of Hurricane Helene recovery as they withheld millions of dollars from Western North Carolina.

 

 

  • Whatley thanked Noem for her “leadership” and said it was an “honor” to work with her.

 

“As they left Hurricane Helene victims behind, ‘recovery czar’ Michael Whatley praised Noem’s failed leadership and refused to denounce her directing relief to a Florida political donor instead of struggling WNC communities,” said Mallory Payne, senior communications advisor for the North Carolina Democratic Party. “Whatley made it clear he will always be loyal to his fellow DC insiders over North Carolinians.”

 

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