FEMA’s acting chief David Richardson joked he was unaware of hurricane season, Reuters reported Monday.
The comment confused FEMA staffers. It’s unclear if Richardson was serious, sources told Reuters.
The Department of Homeland Security said the remark was a joke taken out of context.
“Despite attempts to frame a joke as policy, FEMA is laser focused on disaster response,” DHS said.
Richardson became acting administrator last month, following Cameron Hamilton’s removal.
Hamilton was ousted after testifying that FEMA shouldn’t be eliminated—DHS denies any connection.
Hurricane season runs from June through November. This year could be especially active.
NOAA predicts 6–10 hurricanes, with 3–5 being major. FEMA is key in storm response planning.
Senator Chuck Schumer reacted: “And I’m unaware of why he hasn’t been fired yet.”
Sen. Amy Klobuchar added: “Bare minimum for the leader of FEMA: know when hurricane season is.”
Trump has criticized FEMA as “slow and bureaucratic,” suggesting it should be overhauled or scrapped.
As storms approach, FEMA leadership faces rising scrutiny—and rising pressure to perform.