Trump Denies Rhode Island Aid, Approves $846 Million for States That Backed Him
Updated
Updated · Truthout · Jul 8
Trump Denies Rhode Island Aid, Approves $846 Million for States That Backed Him
3 articles · Updated · Truthout · Jul 8
Summary
Rhode Island was denied federal blizzard recovery aid last week even as Trump announced more than $846 million in disaster assistance for nine states that voted for him in 2024.
Urban Institute data cited in the report found over 84% of requests from Trump-voting states have been approved since his second term began, versus 41% from Harris-voting states, with red states also getting faster decisions.
Trump used Truth Social posts to announce the aid and spotlight allied Republicans — including Wisconsin's $22.6 million award — while often omitting Democratic officials who joined or led the requests.
The White House denied any politicization, saying Trump applies a more thorough review, but Democratic senators say the process remains opaque and leaves disaster survivors uncertain.
The dispute fits a broader pattern: Rhode Island's all-Democratic delegation accused the administration of favoritism, and a later report said Trump also denied aid to New York, Massachusetts and New Jersey despite FEMA thresholds being exceeded.