Acting FEMA Head David Richardson Resigns Amidst Texas Flood Response Criticism

Acting FEMA Head Steps Down

David Richardson, the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), officially resigned on Monday, November 17, 2025, concluding a six-month tenure marked by controversy and criticism. His departure comes amidst intense scrutiny over FEMA's response to catastrophic floods in Texas and questions surrounding his leadership of the federal disaster relief agency.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed Richardson's resignation, stating he would be returning to 'the private sector.' Karen Evans, FEMA's current chief of staff, is slated to assume the role of acting administrator starting December 1, 2025.

Criticism Over Texas Flood Response

Richardson's resignation is largely attributed to mounting criticism regarding FEMA's handling of the devastating July 2025 Texas floods. These floods, particularly in the Texas Hill Country, claimed more than 130 lives, including 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic on the Guadalupe River.

Key criticisms included:

• Inaccessibility: Richardson was reportedly unreachable for hours during the critical early stages of the disaster, complicating search-and-rescue efforts.
• Delayed Visit: He faced backlash for not visiting the disaster zone until more than a week after the floods occurred.
• Controversial Comments: Early in his tenure, Richardson reportedly told staff he was 'unaware the country had a hurricane season,' a comment his staff later insisted was a joke but was met with skepticism.
• Leadership Style: He was also criticized for a perceived low public profile and an authoritarian leadership style, having told staff in an initial meeting, 'Don't get in my way… I will run right over you,' and 'I, and I alone in FEMA, speak for FEMA.'

Despite the backlash, Richardson defended FEMA's performance at a congressional hearing in July, describing the response as a 'model' of disaster management.

A Brief and Tumultuous Tenure

Richardson, a former US Marine Corps officer and Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security's Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office, had no prior emergency management experience when he took on the acting FEMA role in May 2025. He succeeded Cameron Hamilton, who was ousted after reportedly resisting the Trump administration's efforts to significantly restructure or even dismantle FEMA.

The Trump administration has openly expressed its desire to reduce FEMA's size and shift more disaster response responsibilities to state governments. A FEMA Review Council was established earlier this year to explore recommendations for fundamentally restructuring the agency.

Looking Ahead for FEMA

Richardson's departure marks the second leadership change at FEMA under the current administration in a short period, highlighting ongoing instability within the agency responsible for national disaster preparedness and response. As Karen Evans prepares to take the helm, FEMA faces the challenge of rebuilding public trust and navigating potential structural overhauls proposed by the White House.