Homeland Security Secretary Noem Fast-Tracks $11M Florida Disaster Aid After Donor Intervention

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has faced criticism for slow Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster aid to areas hit by floods and hurricanes, partly due to a new policy requiring her personal approval on expenses over $100,000. However, records reveal that Noem expedited more than $11 million in federal funds to rebuild the Naples Pier in Florida shortly after a major campaign donor, Sinan Gursoy, intervened. The donor, a wealthy local cardiologist and political supporter of Noem, contacted her to push for faster aid after city officials had struggled for months to secure assistance through regular channels. Following this intervention, FEMA accelerated the project, with local officials noting a sudden shift to "warp speed" in processing the funds, and Noem personally visiting Naples and dining with the donor. This case highlights stark disparities in FEMA's responsiveness, raising concerns about favoritism and the influence of political connections in disaster relief distribution. Meanwhile, other disaster-stricken regions continue to face delays and bureaucratic hurdles under Noem's leadership.