Sessler's FEMA Fire Claims Spark Outcry | Spokane News

Republican candidate Jerrod Sessler’s controversial claim that the Colville Tribes profit from wildfires by receiving FEMA funds has sparked outrage, with tribal leaders calling it “complete nonsense” and emphasizing that tribal members pay significant taxes. Sessler, running in the August 4 primary, doubled down, arguing FEMA funding creates incentives — while ignoring the tribes’ financial burden, which covers 25% of suppression costs after FEMA’s 75% reimbursement. As the Kaiser Canyon fire burns 86,000 acres, tribal officials stress the devastating cultural and environmental toll, rejecting any notion of arson for profit. Sessler’s broader vision for FEMA reform and his push for tribal integration into mainstream society adds another layer to this heated political clash. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/38834216d386cb09