Fact Check: Biden told FEMA we had no money for Americans on maul

Fact Check: "Biden told FEMA we had no money for Americans on Maui"

What We Know

The claim that President Biden told FEMA there was no money for Americans on Maui is not supported by the available evidence. In fact, the Biden-Harris Administration has actively engaged in providing substantial financial assistance and resources to the victims of the wildfires in Maui. As of late August 2023, the administration had approved over $16 million in assistance to more than 4,200 households affected by the wildfires (source-2). Furthermore, FEMA has made available over 50,000 meals and 75,000 liters of water to support the local government’s distribution efforts (source-3).

Additionally, the administration has deployed over 1,000 federal personnel to assist in response efforts, including FEMA's Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, which are actively helping survivors register for assistance (source-2). This coordinated federal response indicates a commitment to providing necessary support rather than a lack of funds.

Analysis

The claim appears to stem from a misinterpretation or misrepresentation of the Biden administration's actions regarding disaster funding. The available sources indicate a robust federal response to the crisis in Maui, with significant financial allocations already made and ongoing efforts to provide assistance (source-1).

Moreover, the sources used to substantiate the claim lack credibility and do not provide any direct evidence of Biden making such a statement. The Biden administration's official communications consistently emphasize their commitment to supporting the people of Maui and ensuring that federal resources are available for recovery efforts (source-2).

In contrast, some claims regarding FEMA funding mismanagement or allocation to other purposes, such as aiding migrants, have been debunked as false (source-6). This context further undermines the credibility of any claims suggesting that the Biden administration is withholding funds from disaster relief for Americans.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The assertion that President Biden told FEMA there was no money for Americans on Maui is unfounded. Evidence shows that the Biden administration has been actively involved in providing financial assistance and resources to those affected by the wildfires. The administration's commitment to supporting recovery efforts in Maui contradicts the claim, which appears to be based on misinformation.