Several of Alabama's federal lawmakers are taking the Biden-Harris administration to task for funding aid to illegal immigrants through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) while an untold number of Americans are still missing and stranded in the southeastern United States in the devastating wake of Hurricane Helene.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced on Wednesday that, while FEMA does have sufficient money to deal with the "immediate needs" of those affected by Helene, it would be tapped out for the remainder of hurricane season. 

Congress funded FEMA's disaster relief fund at $20 billion last month. However, dozens of Republican congressmen have pointed to the hundreds of millions in FEMA funds spent by the Biden administration to aid illegal aliens through the Shelter and Services Program (SSP)

The program provides funding to non-federal agencies to spend on "humanitarian services" for non-citizens. A total of $640 million was allocated for the SSP in fiscal year 2024 and $364 million in 2023.    

Some Alabama Republicans were swift to call out the SSP funding, accusing the administration of putting the needs of illegal aliens over those of U.S. citizens.

U.S. Sen Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) wrote a brief reminder on X, informing the people of the administration's actions. He also praised Starlink founder Elon Musk for rushing to provide affected residents with internet access during the crisis.

U.S. Rep Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) also blasted the administration's actions, calling it "unacceptable."

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore accused the administration of caring more about illegal immigrants than American citizens.

To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.

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