U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Democrat from Broward-Palm Beach County, is reportedly under consideration by President-elect Donald Trump to head the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Disaster Experience
Moskowitz has relevant disaster experience. He ran the Florida Division of Emergency Management during most of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ first term, and was widely seen as effective in the role. He was at the forefront of the state’s response to the COVID pandemic, and even changed his social media handle to "Jared MASKowitz" at the height of the crisis.
Helping Republicans
If Trump appoints Moskowitz, and the congressman accepts, the move would be a political gift for Republicans. It would immediately reduce the Democratic ranks by one vote in the House, where Republican control is exceedingly tight. Republicans will start the new Congress on January 3 with a 219-215 majority, but Trump also has tapped two Republicans for administration roles, which would reduce the majority to 217 until special elections are held.
Moskowitz Background
There are parts of Moskowitz’s background that some Trump supporters wouldn’t like. In the House, he has been a fierce Democratic partisan in events held by the Republican led House Oversight Committee, where he has defended President Joe Biden and sparred with Committee Chair James Comer. When he was a state representative from northwest Broward, he was instrumental in passage of Florida’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas School Safety Act, passed after the massacre at the Parkland school.
Conclusion
Moskowitz’s consideration for FEMA administrator would be a significant political development, with implications for the balance of power in Congress and the Trump administration’s efforts to address national disasters.
FAQs
Q: Is it true that Moskowitz is a top contender for FEMA administrator?
A: According to CNN, Moskowitz is reportedly a top contender for the position, citing sources familiar with the president-elect’s consideration.
Q: Has Moskowitz denied the rumors?
A: Yes, Moskowitz has denied the rumors, stating that all of the speculation is "all rumor and conjecture" and that he has no plans to leave Congress.
Q: What are Moskowitz’s qualifications for FEMA administrator?
A: Moskowitz has relevant disaster experience, having run the Florida Division of Emergency Management during most of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ first term, and was widely seen as effective in the role. He also has experience working in an important job, often in high-stress situations, as a Democrat working for a Republican elected official with a strong personality.
Q: What are the implications for the balance of power in Congress if Moskowitz becomes FEMA administrator?
A: If Moskowitz accepts the position, it would immediately reduce the Democratic ranks by one vote in the House, potentially changing the balance of power in Congress.
