New FEMA Acting Administrator David Richardson Warns Staff, Signals Shift in Policy Following Cameron Hamilton's Dismissal

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Updated May 10, 2025, 12:12 AM

David Richardson, the new acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has issued a stern warning to staff during his first all-hands meeting, asserting his authority and signaling a shift in agency policy. Richardson, appointed following the dismissal of Cameron Hamilton by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, emphasized that he alone will speak on behalf of FEMA and warned staff against obstructing his intended changes. His appointment was made without Senate confirmation. Richardson, a former Marine Corps officer with combat experience in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa, used military analogies to underscore his determination to implement President Donald Trump's directives. He warned that he would 'run right over' any staff who resist his changes, citing tactics such as obfuscation, delay, and undermining as unacceptable. His 17-minute speech included references to his time with the Second Marine Division and his teachings at George Washington University, the U.S. Army Field Artillery School, and Marine Corps Martial Arts. The new FEMA head also outlined plans to increase cost-sharing with states and to push more responsibilities to state levels, aligning with Trump's vision of reducing federal involvement in disaster management. Richardson's appointment comes at a critical time as the agency, with 5,000 full-time staff and having recently terminated 2,000 employees, prepares for the upcoming hurricane season. This follows a House subcommittee hearing where Cameron Hamilton, criticized by Representative Rosa DeLauro, was fired for opposing the elimination of FEMA. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has also appealed to Trump for aid after tornadoes, highlighting the need for federal assistance.

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Sources

reuters.com(4)cbsnews.com(3)bostonglobe.com apnews.com

Reuters

@Reuters

New FEMA head says he will 'run right over' staff who resist his changes https://t.co/xr6mecojus https://t.co/xr6mecojus

CBS News Miami

@CBSMiami

Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson warns FEMA personnel in first all-hands meeting, saying "I and I alone speak for FEMA." https://t.co/L3e3bNNV1O