‘Don’t Get In My Way,’ New Acting FEMA Chief Warns

May 9, 2025 4:54 pm

WASHINGTON (AP) — The new head of the federal agency tasked with responding to disasters across the country is warning staff not to try to impede upcoming changes. David Richardson tells staffers he “will run right over” them while also suggesting policy changes that would push more responsibilities to the states. Richardson is a former Marine Corps officer who served in Afghanistan, Iraq and Africa. Richardson was named acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Thursday just after Cameron Hamilton was fired from the role. Richardson has been the Department of Homeland Security’s assistant secretary for countering weapons of mass destruction. Richardson told staff Friday he’ll be the one interpreting guidance from President Donald Trump.