Donald Trump Jr. on Thursday continued to spread false claims involving the Biden administration’s response to hurricane relief – claims roundly debunked by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, but which have been circulated by the GOP – as millions of people impacted by the monster storms seek aid.
“So again, that's just something that everyone has to know,” Trump Jr. said in a video posted to his Rumble account Thursday. “It's so easy to take that sort of, hey, a couple of bucks, right? You know, here's 750 bucks from FEMA. Yeah, you know, your house was totaled, but you didn't know it. Think about that very carefully before you do anything.”
He continued: “So just trying to spread that message... Yeah, $750 loan. Don't worry, guys, the illegals will get $13,000. They'll give you $750 only to find out that your $250,000 home is totally totaled. You don't even know it.”
“So don't take the $250,000 loan,” he said.
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According to FEMA, Trump Jr.'s cautions are myths.
In the majority of cases, FEMA grants do not have to be paid back, according to the agency. Some “less common situations” may require FEMA money to be paid back. For example, if you ask FEMA to advance funds to help cover temporary housing costs while insurance benefits kick in.
FEMA also set the record straight on untrue claims peddled by Trump and other Republicans that the agency will provide only $750 to disaster survivors to aid in their recovery. The agency said the $750 is “an upfront, flexible payment you may receive while FEMA assesses your eligibility for additional funds.”
Applicants may still be eligible for additional assistance for needs such as temporary housing, personal property and home repair costs as their applications get reviewed, FEMA said.
