A remark from Donald Trump in North Carolina is drawing criticism after he suggested future Federal Emergency Management Agency funding could hinge on the outcome of a Senate race.
Here's what to know
In a video shared by Courier Newsroom's TikTok account (@couriernewsroom), Trump told a North Carolina crowd that more federal emergency aid could ride on whether Republican Michael Whatley wins the Senate election in November.
@couriernewsroom Donald Trump told a crowd in North Carolina last night that he may withhold additional FEMA dollars from the state unless his preferred candidate for U.S. Senate, Republican Michael Whatley, wins in November.
♬ original sound - Courier Newsroom
"We spent more than $2 billion, FEMA for funding, and you know you're waiting for some additional money to take care of some of the back," Trump says in the video, referring to the $7.5 billion committed for Hurricane Helene-related spending. "And I'm gonna get that to you, Michael. Now, if Michael loses, I'm not sending it. Okay?"
Courier Newsroom framed the moment in its caption.
"Donald Trump told a crowd in North Carolina last night that he may withhold additional FEMA dollars from the state unless his preferred candidate for U.S. Senate, Republican Michael Whatley, wins in November," it read.
The most charitable reading of the line was maybe that Trump was joking, which some offered as a defense. That's far from clear, however. For that reason, the moment sparked outrage from viewers on TikTok.
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Among the reactions, one commenter wrote: "HE IS LITERALLY BRIBING THESE STATES!!!!! How is this acceptable?"
"Precisely zero people should be surprised by this," another added. "It's all about his own agenda."
More background
Federal disaster aid can determine how quickly families get back home, whether roads and public buildings are repaired, and how communities recover after floods, storms, and other emergencies.
The idea that it would be contingent on how a region votes flies in the face of fairness. After all, individuals in a smaller area might pay the price for the collective vote of the entire state.
Either way, most commenters pushed back on the notion of punishing a region for voting a certain way when it desperately needs help and federal funds have been allocated for the exact situations its people are dealing with.
"MIND YOU WESTERN NC IS STILL DESTROYED," one commenter wrote.
What can be done?
Responses also raised questions about accountability.
"He can't deny those funds, only congress have that power," a user suggested.
While that might be technically true, users pushed back on the idea that would stop Trump from trying.
"He's doing all sorts of things he 'can't' do and no one is willing to stop him," a commenter wrote.
Where can I learn more?
Trump's comments come at a time when there are ongoing fights over FEMA funding and readiness.
• In Wisconsin, the $30 million FEMA aid dispute showed recovery work was far from finished.
• Experts warned plans to phase out FEMA after storm season would leave people exposed.
• Leaked FEMA memos showed training cuts before hurricane season were already alarming staff.
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