The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has reportedly suspended a number of staff who criticised the agency's direction under U.S. President Donald Trump. The staff are said to have been among those who recently signed an open letter that castigated Trump officials over cuts and alleged interference, warning that another 'national catastrophe' akin to Hurricane Katrina was possible. More than 20 employees were told on Tuesday that they had been placed on administrative leave, according to sources who spoke to CBS News. FEMA is yet to respond to requests for comment regarding this development.
Amid renewed scrutiny over U.S. disaster readiness following deadly flooding in Texas, the agency has been under fire for drastic changes implemented under Trump's leadership since he returned to office in January. Trump has criticized FEMA as inefficient and suggested that state authorities should handle disaster responses instead. Reports indicate that about a third of FEMA's workforce has left since the start of the year, increasing concerns over the agency’s ability to manage disasters effectively.
The letter signed by almost 200 FEMA employees highlighted the need for competent disaster management, reflecting on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, which had profound implications on U.S. disaster response capabilities. The letter specifically criticized Trump's administration for funding cuts and a lack of permanent leadership, and it called for a safeguard against political interference.
In response, a FEMA official defended the agency's reforms, asserting its commitment to serving the American people amid claims of inefficiency and bureaucratic hindrances. As the North Atlantic hurricane season begins, expectations rise for FEMA to handle increasingly severe weather events, exacerbated by climate change.
Amid renewed scrutiny over U.S. disaster readiness following deadly flooding in Texas, the agency has been under fire for drastic changes implemented under Trump's leadership since he returned to office in January. Trump has criticized FEMA as inefficient and suggested that state authorities should handle disaster responses instead. Reports indicate that about a third of FEMA's workforce has left since the start of the year, increasing concerns over the agency’s ability to manage disasters effectively.
The letter signed by almost 200 FEMA employees highlighted the need for competent disaster management, reflecting on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, which had profound implications on U.S. disaster response capabilities. The letter specifically criticized Trump's administration for funding cuts and a lack of permanent leadership, and it called for a safeguard against political interference.
In response, a FEMA official defended the agency's reforms, asserting its commitment to serving the American people amid claims of inefficiency and bureaucratic hindrances. As the North Atlantic hurricane season begins, expectations rise for FEMA to handle increasingly severe weather events, exacerbated by climate change.
