The head of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) who was temporarily in charge has resigned from his position after only six months, as confirmed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This departure adds to a series of staff exits, program reductions, and policy changes at FEMA, which is tasked with overseeing federal disaster response efforts.
David Richardson, who maintained a low public profile during his short tenure, came under heavy criticism for his management of the fatal Texas floods earlier this year. He took over from previous acting director Cameron Hamilton in May.
While DHS did not provide a specific reason for Richardson’s exit, an anonymous FEMA employee disclosed to The Associated Press that Richardson chose to resign. A DHS spokesperson conveyed appreciation for Richardson’s service and wished him success in his future endeavors.
Richardson, a former U.S. marine officer with military experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, previously led the DHS Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. Despite lacking prior emergency management background, he assumed the FEMA role in May.
Upon assuming the position, Richardson pledged to support President Donald Trump’s objective of transferring more disaster recovery responsibilities to states. He expressed determination to overcome any resistance from FEMA staff hindering this mission.
Lawmakers and FEMA employees raised concerns about Richardson’s leadership effectiveness. Questions arose about his delayed physical presence on the ground following devastating floods in Texas, with Richardson citing administrative obligations and personal circumstances for his initial remote response to the crisis.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem maintained strict control over FEMA operations and spending, requiring personal approval for expenditures exceeding $100,000 US. Richardson refuted claims that this approval process hindered FEMA’s response in Texas.
Karen Evans, FEMA’s chief of staff and former cybersecurity official, is set to assume the administrator role on December 1, as announced by DHS. The FEMA administrator position is mandated to be held by an individual with emergency management expertise, but the Trump administration has appointed temporary leaders without such qualifications.
Since Trump’s return to office in January, FEMA has faced significant restructuring efforts, with notable staff departures and policy changes. The administration has reduced mitigation funding, imposed immigration-related conditions on preparedness grants, and rejected multiple states’ requests for major disaster declarations.
A review council, overseen by Secretary Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, was established by Trump to propose reforms for FEMA and advocate for increased state responsibility in disaster management. The council is expected to present its recommendations in December.
