FEMA Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton Dismissed Amid Internal Policy Disputes

 

Hamilton’s ousting highlights deepening divisions over the future of federal disaster response programs.

By U.S. Politics Desk
Washington, D.C. | May 9, 2025

Cameron Hamilton, the Acting Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has been officially dismissed by the White House following internal disagreements over proposed restructuring plans that could significantly weaken the agency’s role in national disaster response.

Clash Over FEMA’s Future

Hamilton, a decorated U.S. Navy veteran and former emergency management director in North Carolina, was appointed acting head of FEMA in late 2024. His tenure came to an abrupt end after he openly opposed recent legislative proposals—backed by senior administration officials—that would decentralize FEMA authority and shift more disaster response duties to individual states.

In testimony before the Senate Homeland Security Committee last month, Hamilton warned that the proposed changes could “cripple FEMA’s ability to coordinate swift, large-scale disaster relief in future national emergencies.”

Multiple sources inside FEMA say Hamilton’s warnings were not well-received by senior White House staff, leading to a breakdown in trust and his subsequent dismissal.

White House Announces Replacement

The Trump administration announced that Hamilton will be replaced by Charles "Chad" McKinnon, a longtime political aide and strategist with limited emergency management experience. Critics quickly denounced the move as a “political appointment” at a time when FEMA faces increasing demands from climate-related disasters.

In a brief statement, the White House said, “We thank Mr. Hamilton for his service and welcome Mr. McKinnon as FEMA enters a new era focused on state empowerment and budget efficiency.”

Political Fallout

Reaction to Hamilton’s firing was swift and deeply divided along party lines. Senate Democrats condemned the dismissal as “retaliation against professional dissent,” while some Republicans praised the administration for promoting a more decentralized disaster management model.

“Cameron Hamilton stood up for the integrity of a life-saving agency,” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). “His removal is a warning to all civil servants who put science and safety over politics.”

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), however, applauded the decision, stating that “FEMA needs to get out of the way and let states lead.”

Implications for Future Disasters

FEMA has played a central role in coordinating responses to hurricanes, wildfires, and floods across the U.S. for decades. With natural disasters on the rise and climate change worsening, critics argue that weakening federal oversight could leave vulnerable communities unprotected.

Hamilton has not yet spoken publicly about his dismissal, but insiders suggest he may testify before Congress in the coming weeks regarding the internal pressures and policy debates leading up to his exit.

As debate continues over the balance of state and federal responsibility, Hamilton’s firing adds to the growing tension between experienced civil servants and political appointees shaping the future of America’s emergency preparedness.