David Richardson’s resignation as acting head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was overdue and should be the first of several steps taken to protect and restore competency at the agency responsible for disaster response and recovery across the country, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
The second Trump administration has repeatedly attacked FEMA, calling for dismantling the agency, firing staff, pushing the burden of disaster response and recovery to the states, and reducing and delaying disaster assistance. The appointment of Richardson, who had no experience in emergency management, created a threatening environment for FEMA staff and was often unavailable in times of crisis, further undermined FEMA’s ability to provide effective disaster response.
UCS previously called for Richardson, who was never confirmed by the Senate to serve in his role, to be replaced by someone with the required expertise. This administration has failed to nominate a permanent administrator, instead relying on acting heads to circumvent the Senate confirmation process.
“Richardson’s total lack of emergency management experience should have been disqualifying on its own,” said Shana Udvardy, senior climate resilience policy analyst at UCS. “But his absence during the tragic Texas flash flooding this summer, when he was unreachable by phone for more than 24 hours, should’ve been the last straw. As climate change supercharges storms, we need an experienced FEMA administrator who can lead during a crisis, empower FEMA staff, and advocate for the agency across the federal government.
“The next administrator should also be ready to defend the agency against Trump administration efforts to end FEMA as we know it, leaving states and local governments to increasingly deal with disasters on their own. The next FEMA administrator must be willing to advocate for adequate funding and reject outright any politicization of disaster relief assistance.
“But action can’t stop at the acting FEMA administrator. It’s time for Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to step down as well. She has consistently worked to undermine FEMA and its mission, leaving communities to fend for themselves after disasters and doubled down on President Trump’s regressive, destructive agenda. As we approach a new year, it’s imperative the nation has leaders in place who understand FEMA’s principal role: to help U.S. communities in times of catastrophic disasters.”