Noem’s $11M Pier Fix: Disaster Aid for Billionaires First
FEMA’s new slowdown dance got serious when Homeland Security boss Kristi Noem decided she had to personally OK every disaster relief check over $100k — kind of like a CEO approving office snack orders. Meanwhile, the historic Naples pier, crushed by Hurricane Ian in 2022, languished in bureaucratic limbo until a major donor—and pinball enthusiast cardiologist Sinan Gursoy—pinged Noem. Suddenly, bam! $11 million expedited, a government jet trip, and a luxe dinner at Bleu Provence. North Carolina’s Senator Ted Budd? Still stuck trying to get a call back. Disaster aid now officially a VIP-only arcade game.
Share the Story
(1 of 3)When FEMA’s boss makes you wait but fast-tracks a hurricane-damaged millionaire’s pier after a $25k donation, disaster relief turns into a campaign fundraiser with fancy dinners. Meanwhile, normal folks can try waiting 3-5 lifetimes for help.
FEMA’s new motto: 'If you can’t get a call back, try making a $25k campaign donation and dinner invite first.' Waiting for aid? Better dust off that donor Rolodex.
Imagine FEMA as a theme park where only billionaire pier repairs get VIP fast passes while flood victims plead in the regular line. Sponsored by Politics & Pinball.
Source: Propublica | Published: 9/26/2025 | Author: by Joshua Kaplan, Justin Elliott and Alex Mierjeski
More Articles in US News
Man Applies to 200 Jobs with AI's Help, Still Does Own Eyerolling
Motorola Razr Flip Phones Finally Told They’re Secure Enough for 2027
KPMG’s Consulting Business Dies Dramatically While Staff Take a Hike
Pentagon Rolls Out Brain Health Tracking, Forgets Staff, Equipment, Common Sense
Nation's Crime Rate Crashes Like Your Uncle’s Pandemic Hangover
Texas Governor Regrets Encouraging Giant Server Barns, Now Halts 1800 Projects
70-Year-Old Foster Grandma’s Retirement Plan: Never Stop Parenting or Working
USPS Demands Voter Info But Swears Court Says ‘Nope’
