In a recent pivotal meeting, the newly appointed leader of the federal agency responsible for disaster response across the nation, marked the beginning of suggested changes and urged staff against obstructing progress. Addressing the team on Friday, he sternly warned those reluctant to embrace new policies that he was prepared to push through resistance, with changes potentially shifting greater responsibility to state authorities.
David Richardson, a veteran former Marine Corps officer with experience in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa, assumed the role of acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Thursday, following the sudden removal of Cameron Hamilton from the same position. Richardson’s previous role as assistant secretary for countering weapons of mass destruction under the Department of Homeland Security has equipped him with defensive strategies, although he lacks direct experience in managing natural disasters. In a morning call with the staff, he affirmed his commitment to FEMA’s mission and emphasized that he would interpret any directives from former President Donald Trump himself.
Richardson preempted his remarks with a candid acknowledgment of the potential discomfort among staff during transitional periods, estimating that approximately 20% of any organization might resist change. He urged, “If you’re one of those 20%, don’t obstruct me. I’m aware of all the diversion tactics,” emphasizing his dedication to fulfilling the presidential vision as steadfastly as he served in Iraq’s Marine operations.
He hinted at potential policy innovations that could involve increased “cost-sharing with the states,” proposing a strategy to re-evaluate and possibly de-centralize certain disaster management responsibilities to state authorities. This proposal arises amid ongoing debates about the financial burden shared between states and the federal government for recovery efforts, particularly as the frequency of natural disasters necessitates recurring federal budget allocations.
Despite the agency’s aforementioned challenges, states often claim that they are already shoulder-deep in disaster recovery costs and require federal assistance only in unprecedented circumstances surpassing their capabilities. In the face of such discussions, Richardson did not entertain questions during the meeting but promised further insight through subsequent memos, with a town hall scheduled for the following week to address staff inquiries.
As part of the administrative overview, Richardson announced a comprehensive “Mission Analysis” aimed at assessing FEMA’s structure for redundancies and inefficiencies, sharpening their core mission, and preventing unnecessary expansions in scope. The planned analysis would cover evaluations of preparedness for 2025 and require insights into past disaster responses and disaster management before FEMA’s inception, focusing on collaborative efforts between state and federal entities.
Richardson steps into the role amid increased turbulence, just as FEMA gears up for the crucial hurricane season. Meanwhile, former President Trump had entertained the idea of dissolving FEMA in favor of allocating funds directly to states for disaster management, establishing a council tasked with reforming the national emergency response system. Chaired by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, this 13-member council could shape the agency’s future significantly.
The true reasons behind the dismissal of Cameron Hamilton remain unconfirmed, following his remarks at a House subcommittee meeting where he expressed skepticism towards dismantling FEMA. After his testimony, Homeland Security has yet to clarify the grounds for his removal, although Hamilton acknowledged the decision lay beyond his jurisdiction.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, when questioned about the dismissal, suggested it related to Hamilton’s congressional testimony. She noted that Hamilton’s statements conflicted with the administration’s objectives for FEMA policy. “It’s critical that every position supports our administration’s goals,” Leavitt asserted.