FACT CHECK: Did Ron DeSantis Claim FEMA Agents Will Be Arrested If They Obstruct Hurricane Relief?
A post shared on social media purports that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he will have FEMA agents arrested if they disrupt relief efforts.
Verdict: False
The claim is inaccurate.
Fact Check:
DeSantis and his wife, Casey DeSantis, visited a resource center to announce a $1 million fund to support relief efforts after the hurricane, local Fox 13 reported. Casey DeSantis shared information on Hope Florida, stating that the hope is for it to function as a hub for aid.
A post shared on Facebook purports DeSantis will have FEMA agents arrested. The post shared the information in black text over a pink and orange background.
The post reads, “BREAKING, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announces he will ARREST any FEMA agents who obstructs relief efforts for Hurricane Milton. Excellent! NC fire your Governor.”
There is no evidence DeSantis said this. A spokesperson confirmed told Reuters that the claim is false. DeSantis has made it clear that Florida will not be relying on FEMA for recovery, according to Newsweek. He made it clear that the state of Florida itself will be leading the relief effort.
DeSantis did comment on misinformation online about what he has said. During a press briefing, he said, “I think most people are wise to this. You know, we live in an era where if you put out crap online, you can get a lot of people to share it and you can monetize that. That’s just the way it is.” (RELATED: Are Tolls Still In Place On Florida’s Hurricane Milton Evacuation Route?)
This is not the first time misinformation surrounding the politicians has circulated online. Check Your Fact recently debunked a claim Mike Pence endorsed Kamala Harris for the 2024 election.