In a troubling incident captured on a doorbell camera, a North Carolina hurricane relief volunteer appeared to suggest that future aid might be withheld because of a Trump sign in a homeowner’s yard. The video, which surfaced on social media Tuesday, has sparked outrage and reignited debates over the politicization of disaster relief efforts.
The footage, shared by the End Wokeness account on X, shows an elderly woman delivering hurricane relief supplies to a North Carolina home. In the video, the volunteer hands over what appears to be dog beds to the homeowner.
After the exchange, the situation takes a shocking turn. The volunteer gestures toward a Trump campaign sign displayed in the homeowner’s yard and makes a startling comment:
“I’m really conflicted — I have a lot more stuff to give, but I am not a fan of Donald Trump, so these signs are a problem for me.”
The homeowner, visibly taken aback, watches as the woman walks away.
Hurricane Helene victim in NC is told she won’t get more aid over a Trump sign
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) November 27, 2024
The timestamp on the video indicates it was recorded on Tuesday, during ongoing relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of North Carolina in late September. The storm left behind widespread destruction, prompting both federal and private aid organizations to mobilize assistance for affected residents.
While much of the relief work in the region has been carried out by FEMA, local volunteers have also been instrumental in helping survivors. However, this incident has raised concerns about bias in the distribution of aid and the broader implications for disaster recovery.
The incident echoes previous controversies surrounding disaster aid. During his 2020 campaign, former President Donald Trump accused FEMA of withholding assistance from his supporters, claims that were initially dismissed by mainstream media. However, in 2021, the Biden administration faced criticism when a FEMA employee was fired for allegedly bypassing homes displaying pro-Trump signs.
This new video has reignited those concerns, particularly in a state like North Carolina, where political divisions run deep. Critics argue that aid distribution must remain impartial, especially during times of crisis when lives and livelihoods are at stake.
Beyond the alleged bias, many North Carolina residents have voiced frustrations over insufficient hurricane relief. Despite President Biden’s promise of a maximum $750 in federal aid per household, reports indicate that many victims have yet to receive their funds. Delays, poor coordination, and logistical challenges have further compounded the problems.
Critics, including conservative commentator Glenn Beck, have highlighted inefficiencies in FEMA’s operations. Beck reported disruptions at aid staging areas caused by military helicopters and noted that some personnel seemed more focused on restricting amateur rescue efforts than on assisting stranded residents.
Former President Trump visited North Carolina in late October to meet with hurricane survivors. During his visit, he criticized the Biden administration’s handling of disaster relief and promised that support for affected residents would continue.
“We’re going to continue to be with you,” Trump said during the visit. “You’ve gotta get a better crew in to do a better job than has been done by the White House.”
Trump’s visit was widely praised by residents, many of whom felt abandoned by federal and state officials. His remarks highlighted a broader sense of frustration in the region, where many feel that relief efforts have fallen short.
The video of the volunteer’s comments has sparked widespread backlash online. Many have called for accountability, emphasizing that disaster relief should never be influenced by political views.
“This is unacceptable. Aid should be about helping people, not about politics,” one commenter wrote on social media.
Others have defended the volunteer, arguing that the comment may have been a personal opinion rather than an official stance. Still, the incident has underscored the need for transparency and fairness in disaster recovery efforts.
As North Carolina continues its recovery from Hurricane Helene, the question remains: will politics overshadow the pressing need to provide aid to those in desperate circumstances?
The video serves as a reminder of the importance of impartiality in relief efforts and the risks of allowing political divisions to seep into humanitarian work. For the residents of North Carolina, the hope is that future aid will prioritize need over ideology, ensuring that everyone receives the support they deserve.
In the meantime, the controversy surrounding this incident highlights the broader challenges facing disaster recovery in a polarized political climate. Whether these challenges can be addressed remains to be seen, but the calls for change are growing louder with each passing day.
4 Comments
If Biden does not clean house in FEMA and look like a real crusader, Trump will! This agency is corrupt as Hell.
TO HELL with FEMA under Biden’s CONTROL!!!
This “volunteer” was NOT handing out her personal possessions nor her personal aid. EVERYTHING she was distributing was either paid for via donations or provided by the government! While it is laudable that volunteers assist in recovery efforts, this woman’s actions tarnish their noble efforts. She should NOT be allowed to do field work!
East Palestine, Ohio and the residents of North Carolina have similar stories.