DHS Fires FEMA Officials Over $59M Hotel Payments

The Department of Homeland Security has fired four FEMA officials following claims by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that $59 million in payments were made to luxury hotels in New York City to house migrants. These payments, part of FEMA's Shelter and Services Program designed to aid cities sheltering migrants, were described by DHS as 'egregious' and contrary to the President's executive order. FEMA's acting administrator suspended these payments and stated that those responsible would be held accountable, while New York City officials claim the funds were allocated according to established procedures. The firings underscore ongoing scrutiny of FEMA's spending practices, with the Trump administration previously criticizing the agency for mismanagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. DHS's actions reflect broader efforts to address government inefficiency and enforce strict adherence to federal directives.