Trump Administration Fires Acting FEMA Chief After Agency Defense

Cameron Hamilton, acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), was abruptly removed from his position just one day after publicly opposing efforts by President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to eliminate or drastically reduce FEMA's role. Hamilton testified before Congress, emphasizing that dismantling FEMA would not serve the American people's best interests, contradicting the administration's push to transfer disaster response responsibilities to states. His ousting reflects the Trump administration's broader strategy to restructure or potentially dissolve FEMA, which has faced criticism from Trump, particularly after response shortcomings to Hurricane Helene. David Richardson, a Marine Corps veteran overseeing homeland security efforts against weapons of mass destruction, has been appointed to perform the duties of FEMA Administrator following Hamilton's departure. The leadership change has caused concern among state officials about the federal disaster preparedness and recovery support ahead of the upcoming hurricane season. While the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the personnel change, it did not provide details on the reasons behind Hamilton's firing.