Cameron Hamilton, the recently dismissed acting head of FEMA, defended the agency’s disaster response record while also criticizing aspects of the Trump administration as he exited his role. According to reports, Hamilton was called to Department of Homeland Security headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he was informed of his removal by Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar and senior adviser Corey Lewandowski. His dismissal came shortly after he testified before a House Appropriations subcommittee, where he voiced opposition to proposals that would eliminate FEMA and shift its responsibilities to state governments.
“I do not believe it is in the best interests of the American people to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” Hamilton said during the hearing, appearing to contradict statements from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who has suggested restructuring or potentially phasing out the agency. Following his removal, FEMA confirmed that David Richardson would assume the role of Senior Official Performing the Duties of Administrator. Hamilton, a former Navy SEAL, had reportedly considered resigning earlier but chose to remain after encouragement from agency staff.
His departure comes amid broader scrutiny of FEMA under the Trump administration. Earlier, four FEMA officials were dismissed over what DHS described as an unauthorized $59 million payment for migrant housing in New York City. Critics argued the funds should have been reserved for disaster relief, while others noted the complexities of emergency funding allocations. President Donald Trump has repeatedly called for major reforms to FEMA, and has even floated the possibility of eliminating the agency altogether. During a visit to North Carolina following Hurricane Helene, he criticized FEMA’s performance and emphasized his preference for a system where states take primary responsibility for disaster response. Trump argued that state-led efforts could deliver faster and more cost-effective results, while pledging continued federal support during the transition.
