David Richardson, the head of FEMA—one of four people already in President Biden’s cabinet who’ve quit—resigned. His brief tenure as administrator was marred by scandal, and he was criticized for the way he led the agency’s response to natural disasters. He assumed the role in May of this year. He replaced an official who was fired for resisting the Trump administration’s attempts to gut the agency.
FEMA is an essential partner in the nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters from coast to coast. The Trump administration has clearly shown its intent to shrink the agency’s size and impact to almost nothing. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that state governments can manage many of FEMA’s functions, arguing for a downsizing of the federal agency. This relentless political drive for the agency to shrink has resulted in massive cuts to FEMA’s staff. Since January, some 2,500 employees have departed via buyouts, firings, and other incentives that made it attractive for staff to seek opportunities elsewhere. Currently, FEMA employs around 23,350 individuals.
Richardson’s resignation comes during an active Atlantic hurricane season, raising concerns about the agency’s leadership during a critical time for disaster management. His exit follows a period of heavy criticism. He widely drew flak for going AWOL during high profile disasters, such as Texas’ deadly flash floods last July. In his initial address to staff, Richardson established right away that he would not put up with any pushback on his changes. He insisted that every decision have to go through him.
In June, Richardson set off a firestorm of miscommunication among the staff. He admitted that he did not know that the nation’s hurricane season had started, a jaw-dropping admission for the head of FEMA, his position. His exit marks an ignominious end to his brief leadership, as he struggled to navigate an agency already under pressure from the administration’s efforts to curtail its functions.
While Richardson’s departure does affect FEMA, as it does create a leadership void, it is yet to be seen who will take up the mantle. The transition comes at an especially important time for strong disaster response. With hurricanes and other natural disasters looming, the need for this mission has only grown.