Morning Wire: Fired FEMA Boss Speaks & Trump Expands Team | Afternoon Update | 11.12.24
Hosted by John Bickley and Georgia Howe, Morning Wire delivers comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in politics, culture, education, sports, and more. In the November 12th, 2024 episode, the hosts delve into significant national issues, including a controversial FEMA firing, President-elect Trump's strategic appointments, Melania Trump's stance on a White House meeting, a high-profile criminal case, and a notable incident in the NFL.
1. Fired FEMA Supervisor Alleges Systemic Bias
Reporter: Amanda Prestigiacomo
Timestamp: [00:24]
Amanda Prestigiacomo introduces a major story involving the recent firing of a FEMA supervisor who allegedly directed disaster relief workers to avoid homes displaying Trump signs in Florida.
Exclusive Interview with Marnie Washington:
Timestamp: [00:38]
Marnie Washington, the dismissed FEMA supervisor, revealed to Ronald Martin that FEMA maintains a widespread policy of avoiding politically hostile homes in disaster zones. Washington emphasized that this is not an isolated incident but a "colossal event of avoidance happening across the country," citing examples beyond Florida, including the Carolinas. She stated:
“Senior leadership will lie to you and tell you that they do not know. But if you ask the DSA crew leads and specialists what they are experiencing in the field, they will tell you...” ([00:38])
Washington claims that both federal and state probes are currently investigating the matter, despite FEMA launching their own investigation. She asserts that the policy is well-known within the agency, highlighting the internal conflict and possible misrepresentation by FEMA's senior leadership.
2. President-Elect Trump Announces Key Appointments
Timestamp: [01:32]
President-elect Donald Trump has made significant moves to expand his team in preparation for his administration. Notably, he has appointed South Dakota Governor Christy Noem to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Details of the Appointment:
Christy Noem, a steadfast supporter of Trump, is set to oversee critical agencies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Her appointment is pivotal in advancing Trump's immigration policies. Noem has been vocal in her criticism of the Biden administration's border policies and supported Texas's border security efforts.
Additionally, Trump has appointed former ICE Director Tom Homan as the new border czar and nominated Governor Mike Huckabee as the next Ambassador to Israel. Trump emphasized Huckabee's role in fostering peace in the Middle East, stating:
“Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” ([01:32])
These appointments reflect Trump's strategic focus on strengthening border security and international diplomacy in line with his campaign promises.
3. Melania Trump Declines First Lady Jill Biden’s Invitation
Timestamp: [02:12]
In a notable diplomatic development, Melania Trump has reportedly declined an invitation from First Lady Jill Biden to meet during Trump's visit to the White House. Sources attribute Melania's decision to the FBI raid on the Trump family’s Mar-a-Lago residence in 2022, which she views as an invasion of privacy.
Melania’s Perspective:
A source communicated to the New York Post that Melania holds the Bidens responsible for the FBI's actions, which she sees as a violation of her Fourth Amendment rights. This refusal underscores the ongoing tensions between the Trump and Biden families, stemming from past legal and personal confrontations.
4. High-Profile Murder Case Involving Illegal Immigrant
Reporter: Amanda Prestigiacomo
Timestamp: [03:06]
Amanda Prestigiacomo reports on the courtroom proceedings involving a Venezuelan national charged with the murder of University of Georgia student Lakin Riley. The accused opted for a bench trial over a jury trial, with the hearing revealing emotional scenes as Riley's mother was visibly distressed.
Case Details:
The 26-year-old defendant faces multiple charges, including murder and kidnapping, related to the incident that occurred while Riley was jogging in February. Additionally, he is implicated in a separate Peeping Tom case from the same day. Both the defense and prosecution have agreed to proceed with the bench trial, scheduled to commence on Friday.
5. NFL Fines Nick Bosa for Political Apparel
Timestamp: [03:41]
Ronald Martin covers the National Football League's (NFL) decision to fine San Francisco 49ers star Nick Bosa $11,255 for wearing a "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) hat during a post-game interview on October 27. The league delayed the fine for nearly two weeks, aiming to appear neutral in the politically charged environment surrounding the election.
Nick Bosa’s Reaction:
In a locker room interview, Bosa expressed his stance on the fine:
“I don't think my position on speaking about it is going to change. Clearly, the nation spoke and we got what we got.” ([03:41])
Bosa's remarks highlight the intersection of sports and politics, emphasizing personal expression despite organizational penalties.
6. Viral Moment on Veterans Day Wheel of Fortune
Reporter: Amanda Prestigiacomo
Timestamp: [04:20]
During a Veterans Day special episode of "Wheel of Fortune," contestant Will Jordan from Connecticut captured public attention with a memorable slip-up. When attempting to solve the puzzle, Jordan inadvertently said:
“Treat yourself a round of sausage.” ([04:30])
Host Ryan Seacrest humorously addressed the mistake, while Jordan later explained to social media correspondent Maggie Sajak that the pressure of the moment led to his error. The correct phrase was “give yourself a round of applause,” a common expression that became the focal point of the viral moment.
Conclusion
In this episode of Morning Wire, John Bickley and Georgia Howe provide incisive analysis on pressing national issues, from alleged FEMA biases and strategic political appointments by President-elect Trump to high-profile legal cases and cultural moments in sports and entertainment. Their detailed reporting ensures listeners stay informed on matters shaping the political and social landscape.
For more in-depth coverage on these stories and the latest news, visit dailywire.com and tune into the full Morning Wire episodes each morning.
Notable Quotes:
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Marnie Washington on FEMA's Policies: "Senior leadership will lie to you and tell you that they do not know..." ([00:38])
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Trump on Mike Huckabee's Role: “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” ([01:32])
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Nick Bosa on NFL Fine: “I don't think my position on speaking about it is going to change. Clearly, the nation spoke and we got what we got.” ([03:41])
