In Washington, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) underwent a significant leadership shake-up on Thursday, just prior to the onset of the hurricane season. The acting administrator, Cameron Hamilton, was replaced by another official from the Department of Homeland Security, stirring discussions and concerns.
The sudden replacement occurred a day after Hamilton, who is a former Navy SEAL and had been in the role for several months, made a speech on Capitol Hill. During his testimony, he openly disagreed with proposed plans to dismantle the agency, which is vital for disaster preparedness and financial aid distribution. “I do not believe it is in the best interest of the American people to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” Hamilton stated in his testimony.
President Donald Trump has proposed that state governments should primarily handle crises such as hurricanes and tornadoes, rather than relying on federal oversight. Trump has been particularly critical of FEMA’s role, notably in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.
The new interim head of FEMA is David Richardson, a former Marine Corps officer with a service record that includes deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa. Notably, Richardson currently holds a position as the Department of Homeland Security’s assistant secretary for countering weapons of mass destruction, though he lacks experience in managing natural disasters.
The administration has been silent on any plans for a permanent nominee and has not provided details on Richardson’s suitability for the role, the effect of Hamilton’s congressional testimony, or whether President Trump directly ordered Hamilton’s removal. According to an anonymous administration official, Hamilton was offered an alternative government position more suited to his skills, although specifics were not disclosed.
FEMA employees were informed about this leadership transition via a concise email. Additionally, a January executive order from Trump initiated the creation of a review council designated to “reform and streamline the nation’s emergency management and disaster response system.” This 13-member council is led by Noem alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
During his time before a House Appropriations subcommittee, Hamilton voiced his concerns on FEMA’s assistance processes and observed that the agency had become an overly extensive public entity, attempting to handle every type of emergency, even the minor ones. When asked about the plans to disband FEMA, Hamilton emphasized his stance against it, noting it would require significant political deliberation.
Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro from Connecticut, in her statement later on Thursday, expressed her support for Hamilton, criticizing the Trump administration for dismissing individuals who do not exhibit unwavering allegiance to the president. DeLauro stated, “The Trump administration must explain why he has been removed from this position. Integrity and morality should not cost you your job.”