DHS Secretary Noem Calls for FEMA Reform, Unveils Force Design 2028, Nominates Admiral Lunday as Coast Guard Commandant

Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has called for reforms at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) amid ongoing concerns about disaster response effectiveness. While Noem has not endorsed any specific plans currently under review by DHS, she emphasized the need to reduce bureaucratic obstacles and refocus FEMA on disaster response and life-saving efforts. Concurrently, Noem announced the nomination of Admiral Kevin E. Lunday as the 28th Commandant of the U.S.

Coast Guard, pending Senate confirmation. Lunday, who has been serving in an acting capacity, is expected to lead the Coast Guard through a transformative period marked by the recently unveiled Force Design 2028 blueprint. This initiative aims to modernize the service into a highly capable and responsive maritime fighting force. Noem delivered these remarks during the 144th commencement ceremony at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, where she encouraged graduates to lead a "brand new" Coast Guard. The nomination has received bipartisan support, with Senator Ted Cruz pledging swift committee action. The Trump administration continues to consider adjustments to FEMA funding, including potential cuts to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers seeking clarity from DHS.