New FEMA head says he will 'run right over' staff who Resist his changes
By: Leah Douglas
and Nathan Layne
Reuters
WASHINGTON - David Richardson, the new head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, told staff on May 9 [2025] he will "run right over" anyone who resists changes and that all decisions must now go through him.
.....
"I, and I alone in FEMA speak for FEMA. I'm here to carry out the president's intent for FEMA," Richardson, who was most recently assistant secretary for DHS" office for countering weapons of mass destruction told the staff.
..... Richardson spoke one day after he was appointed to replace acting FEMA chief Cameron Hamilton, who was ousted by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem after telling a congressional hearing he did not support eliminating the agency.
..... President Donald Trump and Noem have called for the agency to be shrunk or even abolished, arguing that many of hits functions be carry out by the states, a stance that is already leading to decreased federal aid for disasters.
..... Richardson, a former Marine artillery officer and combat veteran, told staff in an all-hands call that was heavy on references to his military experience that all decision, including those on spending, would go through him.
..... Standing behind a lectern and speaking in a forceful tone, Richardson said in his experience from carrying out reforms hat roughly 20% of an organization will resist,
..... "Obfuscation delay, undermining. If you're one of those 20% of people and you think those tactics and techniques are going to help you, they will not, because I will run right over you," Richardson said.
..... The leadership changes comes at a time when the agency is helping states and local communities prepare for the onset of hurricane season on June 1.