FEMA’s acting chief dismissed a day after testifying before Congress.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) witnessed a significant leadership shift on Thursday, as Acting Director Cameron Hamilton was dismissed just a day after he provided testimony to a congressional committee, arguing against the dismantling of the agency. This development comes at a critical juncture, as the beginning of hurricane season looms large on June 1.

Hamilton, who was appointed by former President Donald Trump, faced termination only weeks before a season that presents substantial risks for natural disasters. His ousting was orchestrated by Deputy Homeland Security Secretary Troy Edgar and Trump advisor Corey Lewandowski, who summoned him to the Department of Homeland Security headquarters, according to reports from Media News Source.

During his testimony before the House Appropriations subcommittee, Hamilton characterized FEMA as an “overextended federal bureaucracy,” suggesting that while reform was necessary, the agency’s essential mission should persist. He emphasized to lawmakers that eliminating FEMA would be contrary to the interests of the American public. This assertion came in response to inquiries from Connecticut Democratic Representative Rosa DeLauro, who sought his perspective on the agency’s role amid ongoing discussions about its future.

The Trump administration has long criticized FEMA, advocating for a model in which individual states bear greater responsibility for managing their own disaster responses. The former president’s administration had previously reduced funding allocated for disaster preparedness and presented proposals that could raise the benchmark for states to qualify for federal disaster assistance. Such actions have led to intensified scrutiny of FEMA’s efficacy and the necessity of its existence.

In addition to Hamilton’s remarks during his congressional appearance, he advocated for a “phased approach” to reform, suggesting that improvements should focus on enhancing state and local capacities rather than pursuing an abrupt overhaul of the agency.

As FEMA begins its preparations for hurricane season, Hamilton’s replacement has been identified as David Richardson, who serves as the Assistant Secretary for the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office within the Department of Homeland Security. Notably, Richardson’s expertise does not include disaster response, raising questions about the agency’s leadership at a time when effective emergency management is imperative.

Hamilton’s background includes a tenure as a former Navy SEAL and experience in emergency management at the State Department during the Trump administration. Prior to his role at FEMA, he led the Emergency Medical Services Division within the Department of Homeland Security.

The impending hurricane season adds urgency to the need for effective communication and coordination among federal, state, and local authorities to ensure the preparedness and safety of communities prone to natural disasters. The recent leadership changes at FEMA could have significant implications for the agency’s ability to respond to crises in the months ahead.