FEMA Chief Steps Down After Controversial Six-Month Tenure
David Richardson, the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has resigned from his position after just six months in the role, a senior Trump administration official confirmed on Monday. His departure comes amid significant criticism of his handling of catastrophic flooding in Texas during July 2025, which resulted in more than 130 fatalities, including children at a summer camp.
Controversy and Criticism During Crisis
Richardson's brief leadership was marred by controversy, particularly regarding his responsiveness during the deadly Texas flash floods. The former US Marine Corps officer was accused of maintaining a low profile while the disaster unfolded, drawing ire from both the public and political commentators. This was compounded by reports from June that he had baffled FEMA staff by claiming he was unaware the United States had a hurricane season.
The timing of his resignation is especially critical, as it occurs during the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, leaving the agency in a precarious position. An unnamed official confirmed the departure to Reuters, though no specific reasons were provided for Richardson's decision to step down.
Broader Political Context and Agency Cuts
Richardson's exit marks the second departure of a FEMA head since May. His predecessor was reportedly fired after resisting Trump administration efforts to dismantle the agency. President Donald Trump has been vocal about his desire to significantly reduce FEMA's size, arguing that state governments can handle many of the federal agency's disaster response functions.
According to a September Government Accountability Office report, FEMA has lost approximately 2,500 employees since January through buyouts, firings, and other incentives, reducing its overall workforce to about 23,350. These cuts align with the administration's broader push to shrink the federal civilian workforce.
Richardson's tenure began combatively; he told staff in May that he would "run right over" anyone resisting changes and declared that "I, and I alone in FEMA, speak for FEMA." His abrupt resignation represents an ignominious end for an official who promised assertive leadership. The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees FEMA, did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding his successor.
