Introduction to the New FEMA Head
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a new acting administrator, David Richardson. Richardson, a former Marine Corps officer, was appointed to the role after the previous acting administrator, Cameron Hamilton, was fired. Richardson has experience serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa, but he does not have a background in managing natural disasters.
A Warning to Staff
In a meeting with FEMA staff, Richardson warned employees not to try to impede upcoming changes. He stated that he would "run right over" anyone who tried to get in his way, and that he was determined to achieve the president’s intent. Richardson estimated that about 20% of the staff might resist changes, but he made it clear that he would not tolerate any obstruction.
Preview of Upcoming Changes
Richardson previewed some of the changes that might be coming to FEMA, including more cost-sharing with states. He reminded staff that FEMA is part of the Department of Homeland Security and that the agency needs to find ways to do things better and push responsibilities down to the state level. This approach has been a growing concern, as states often argue that they are already paying for most disaster recoveries on their own.
States’ Role in Disaster Recovery
The issue of how much states should pay for disaster recovery is a contentious one. States often argue that they are already shouldering a significant burden, and that the federal government should provide more support. However, the federal government has been pushing for more cost-sharing with states, which could lead to a shift in the way disaster recovery is funded.
A New Direction for FEMA
Richardson’s appointment and his comments suggest that FEMA may be heading in a new direction. The agency will be conducting a "Mission Analysis" to identify redundancies and inefficiencies, and to clarify its core mission. Richardson has also listed several tasks that need to be accomplished in the coming weeks, including providing internal assessments of the agency’s preparedness for 2025 and identifying gaps in preparedness or core capabilities.
Turmoil at FEMA
Richardson’s arrival at FEMA comes at a time of immense turmoil, with the agency preparing for hurricane season. The previous acting administrator, Cameron Hamilton, was fired after testifying before a House subcommittee that he did not believe FEMA should be eliminated. The White House has suggested that Hamilton’s comments were contrary to the president’s goals, and that his dismissal was related to his testimony.
Conclusion
The new head of FEMA, David Richardson, has made it clear that he is determined to achieve the president’s intent and push through changes at the agency. With his background as a Marine Corps officer and his experience serving in combat zones, Richardson brings a unique perspective to the role. However, his lack of experience in managing natural disasters and his push for more cost-sharing with states may raise concerns among some stakeholders. As FEMA prepares for hurricane season, it remains to be seen how Richardson’s leadership will shape the agency’s response to disasters and its relationships with states and the federal government.
