Statement from NYC Comptroller Lander on President Trump’s Response on $80M FEMA Clawback Suit

New York, NY — New York City Comptroller Brad Lander issued the following statement about President Trump’s response to New York City’s lawsuit to recoup the $80.5 million of FEMA dollars allocated by Congress under the Shelter and Services Provision. 

“President Trump’s unhinged response misrepresents the law and, in line with his xenophobic MAGA playbook, erroneously lumps all immigrants into the same category as violent criminals. In this case, the only ones who broke the law were Donald Trump and his loser lackies—Elon Musk and Kristi Noem—when they lifted $80 million in Congressionally-approved FEMA funds from New York City’s bank account. That money, which the City already spent on necessary services, leaves a massive hole in our budget that will come at the cost of hard-working New Yorkers. 

“I will continue pushing the Law Department to fight like hell to recoup these funds seized illegally and stop Donald Trump from ever trying to rip off New York City again. Our lawyers cannot pull any punches—our City’s sovereignty and future financial security are at stake.” 

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