What that "system" entails, though, is unknown since the agency isn't forthright about what it's taking, its justification, or where it's sending seized material.
FEMA's defense is that it is only preventing medical supplies from being shipped abroad.
But, as was reported in Talking Points Memo:
"Something doesn't fit here. These seizures and reroutings have become commonplace around the country in recent weeks. Given FEMA's role in the COVID-19 CRISIS response efforts it's logical to conclude they're authorizing these actions. In some cases it has been murky just what federal agency is involved. But in other news reports FEMA has publicly discussed its role. If it's really true that FEMA isn't doing this, who is? And is it really possible this is happening on a widespread basis around the country and FEMA doesn't know anything this?"
Remember what Jared Kushner said:
"It's supposed to be our stockpile.
House Oversight Chairwoman Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and Homeland Security Chairman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) called on Peter Gaynor to explain "the role of Jared Kushner in managing FEMA's operational efforts to obtain and distribute" supplies, explaining:
"It appears that Mr. Kushner is unclear about basic facts regarding the purpose of the Strategic National Stockpile. We are particularly troubled that Mr. Kushner's work may even involve 'directing FEMA and HHS officials to prioritize specific requests from people who are able to get Kushner on the phone.'"
Weeks ago, Donald Trump told governors "We're not a shipping clerk."
In other words, the Trump administration is not interested in protecting the lives of average Americans.
It only intends to coddle corporations and the wealthy responsible for the almighty "supply chain."
As Trump blamed the Obama administration, cases of COVID-19 were mounting.
Even while aware the pandemic was going to get worse after its first American case on Jan. 19, Trump sent 17.8 tons of personal protective equipment (PPE) to China.
Now states are scrambling for that equipment and left to compete against each other for it.
The federal governmentthe very entity that exists to "Establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty"is rotting from the head down like a fish.
We are on our own.
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