David Richardson is the acting Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), having assumed the role on May 8, 2025, following the dismissal of Cameron Hamilton. Richardson was appointed by President Donald Trump and serves under Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
A native of Waterford, Michigan, Richardson holds a B.S. in biology from Harding University in Arkansas. He served as a ground combat officer in the United States Marine Corps, leading artillery units during deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa. His military service earned him recognition for valor in combat operations . After his military career, Richardson taught history at George Washington University and strategy at the U.S. Army Field Artillery School. He also served as an instructor in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program.
In January 2025, Richardson was appointed Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office, where he coordinated efforts to protect the U.S. from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.
Richardson’s leadership at FEMA has been marked by controversy. In June 2025, during an internal briefing, he reportedly stated he was unaware of the U.S. hurricane season, a comment that was later clarified by DHS as a joke . This remark raised concerns among FEMA staff and lawmakers, especially given Richardson’s lack of experience in disaster response.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Waterford, Michigan, Richardson graduated from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. His academic background laid the foundation for his subsequent military and governmental roles.
Military Service
Richardson served as a ground combat officer in the United States Marine Corps for over two decades. During his service, he commanded artillery units and completed deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa. He was recognized for valor during combat operations and later taught history at George Washington University, strategy at the U.S. Army Field Artillery School, and served as an instructor in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program.
Career Before FEMA
Prior to his appointment at FEMA, Richardson held the position of Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security’s Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. In this role, he coordinated efforts to protect the U.S. from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. His experience in national security and defense policy provided a unique perspective as he transitioned into emergency management.
Appointment as FEMA Administrator
In May 2025, Richardson was appointed as the acting Administrator of FEMA, succeeding Cameron Hamilton, who was removed from the position after publicly opposing the potential elimination of the agency. Richardson’s appointment was part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to restructure federal agencies and reduce perceived inefficiencies.
Leadership Style and Controversies
Richardson’s leadership has been characterized by a top-down approach and a commitment to streamlining FEMA’s operations. He has emphasized the importance of cost-sharing with states and has sought to identify and eliminate redundancies within the agency. However, his tenure has also been marked by controversies, including a reported comment during a staff briefing in which he stated he was unaware of the U.S. hurricane season. While FEMA officials later clarified that the remark was intended as a joke, it raised concerns about his preparedness for the agency’s core mission.
Response to Hurricane Season
As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season commenced, Richardson faced criticism for FEMA’s preparedness. Reports indicated that the agency’s hurricane response plan was only partially complete and had been developed without traditional input from FEMA experts. Additionally, staffing issues compounded the problem, with a significant portion of FEMA’s workforce having left due to a voluntary buyout initiative. These challenges led to questions about FEMA’s ability to effectively respond to potential disasters.
Personal Life
David Richardson resides in Northern Virginia with his two sons. He is also an author; in 2019, he published a novel titled War Story, which is loosely based on his experiences in Iraq. The book provides insight into his perspectives on military service and leadership.
Conclusion
David Richardson’s appointment as FEMA Administrator has brought significant changes to the agency, characterized by a focus on efficiency and cost-sharing with states. However, his leadership has also been marked by controversy and criticism, particularly regarding FEMA’s preparedness for the 2025 hurricane season.
FAQs
What is David Richardson’s educational background?
David Richardson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas.
What military experience does David Richardson have?
Richardson served as a ground combat officer in the United States Marine Corps for over two decades, commanding artillery units and completing deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa.
What position did David Richardson hold before becoming FEMA Administrator?
Before his appointment at FEMA, Richardson served as the Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security’s Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office.
When was David Richardson appointed as FEMA Administrator?
Richardson was appointed as the acting Administrator of FEMA on May 8, 2025.
What controversies has David Richardson faced as FEMA Administrator?
Richardson has faced criticism for a reported comment stating he was unaware of the U.S. hurricane season, as well as concerns about FEMA’s preparedness for the 2025 hurricane season.
What challenges has FEMA faced under David Richardson’s leadership?
FEMA has faced challenges such as incomplete disaster response plans, staffing issues, and concerns about the agency’s preparedness for the 2025 hurricane season.
What is David Richardson’s personal life like?
David Richardson resides in Northern Virginia with his two sons.
