David Richardson Steps Down as Acting FEMA Administrator

Six‑Month Tenure Ends Amid Concerns Over Leadership

David Richardson announced his resignation today, bringing an end to a brief six‑month stint as the acting head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Sources within the agency say that many employees had raised doubts about Richardson’s ability to lead the organization through ongoing disaster‑response challenges.

Key criticisms included a perceived lack of clear communication, delayed decision‑making, and insufficient experience in emergency management, all of which eroded confidence in his leadership.

“The agency needs a leader who can inspire confidence and provide decisive direction,” one senior official, who asked to remain anonymous, told reporters.

The Department of Homeland Security has not yet named a permanent replacement, but officials assure that the transition will be handled swiftly to maintain continuity of critical operations.

Richardson’s departure comes at a time when FEMA is contending with multiple natural disasters across the country, heightening the urgency for stable and effective leadership.