In a recent development, Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed disappointment after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declined the state’s appeal for federal disaster relief following severe flooding in May. The governor’s response, detailed in a Thursday statement, highlighted his frustration with the decision, emphasizing the challenges now facing Maryland residents.

Moore criticized the process, stating, “FEMA has a responsibility to weigh the merits of each emergency request objectively.” He further accused the Trump administration of politicizing disaster relief efforts, asserting that this politicization leaves communities to bear the consequences without the necessary federal support.

The flooding, which swept through Garrett and Allegany counties in western Maryland over a two-day period, caused significant damage. The total estimated losses amounted to $33.7 million, affecting homes, schools, libraries, and other essential community infrastructure. This information was outlined in a letter Moore sent to then-President Trump in August, urging for a major disaster declaration.

The floods occurred over two days, impacting Garrett and Allegany counties in western Maryland. They resulted in $33.7 million in damages, with homes, schools, libraries and other community buildings impacted, according to a letter Moore sent to Trump in August. 

The president did not issue a major disaster declaration, which would have made FEMA assistance available, following the floods. In July, the administration denied disaster assistance to Maryland. 

Moore appealed the decision in August, noting that the damages were nearly triple Maryland’s federal threshold for assistance.

“Maryland has met long-standing criteria for FEMA support in the wake of historic floods across Mountain Maryland. And this appeal isn’t simply justified, it’s necessary,” Moore said at the time. 

The Hill has reached out to FEMA and the White House for comment. 

Maryland’s senators, Democratic Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, also criticized the denial in Thursday’s release. Van Hollen said the administration “has turned its back on these communities,” while Alsobrooks claimed Trump “cares more about supporting billionaires than supporting Americans facing disaster.”