SAN DIEGO (AP) — The acting chief of the Federal Emergency Management Agency left his job Monday after just six months, according to the Department of Homeland Security, the latest disruption in a year of mass staff departures, program cuts, and policy upheaval at the agency charged with managing federal disaster response. David Richardson is leaving the post after replacing previous acting head Cameron Hamilton. DHS did not comment on the reason for his departure. “The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security extend their sincere appreciation to the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Administrator, David Richardson...
A former Marine Corps officer, Richardson had no previous emergency management experience when he took on the role. Despite his commitment to President Trump’s goals of pushing more disaster responsibilities to states, he faced skepticism from Congress and within FEMA. His leadership came under fire, particularly regarding his delayed response to July floods that resulted in significant loss of life. While he defended his absence by citing a need to navigate bureaucratic challenges, critics questioned his priorities.
A former Marine Corps officer, Richardson had no previous emergency management experience when he took on the role. Despite his commitment to President Trump’s goals of pushing more disaster responsibilities to states, he faced skepticism from Congress and within FEMA. His leadership came under fire, particularly regarding his delayed response to July floods that resulted in significant loss of life. While he defended his absence by citing a need to navigate bureaucratic challenges, critics questioned his priorities.
