Story perspectives

Noem Under Fire for FEMA's $17B Backlog, Leadership Failures

2/4/2026

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Noem Under Fire

Kristi Noem faces scrutiny over leadership of the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Critics, including Republicans, demand resignation after Jan 24 killing of Alex Pretti by a federal agent.
Noem's policies delayed responses and recovery funding, creating a $17 billion backlog.
Noem announced $2.2 billion in funds, but recipients call it routine.
Concerns persist about FEMA's effectiveness before hurricane season, amid staff cuts.

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Reeves Acknowledges Recovery

Winter Storm Fern has caused 85 deaths nationwide, including 23 fatalities in Mississippi and widespread power outages.
Governor Tate Reeves acknowledged Mississippi's challenges but noted improvements and praised the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) local integration.
Secretary Kristi Noem commended FEMA's response and highlighted a block grant system enabling pre-deployment.
As cities recover, a cold wave is forecast for the eastern United States in February.

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Noem Under Fire

Kristi Noem faces scrutiny over leadership of the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Critics, including Republicans, demand resignation after Jan 24 killing of Alex Pretti by a federal agent.
Noem's policies delayed responses and recovery funding, creating a $17 billion backlog.
Noem announced $2.2 billion in funds, but recipients call it routine.
Concerns persist about FEMA's effectiveness before hurricane season, amid staff cuts.

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