Trump Nominates Fired FEMA Leader for Top Role

President Donald Trump has nominated Cameron Hamilton to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a year after the administration removed him from the same position. Hamilton, a former Navy SEAL, previously served as FEMA’s temporary administrator from January to May 2025 but was dismissed after publicly opposing the idea of abolishing the agency. His nomination comes as the Trump administration appears to be reversing its earlier stance on dismantling FEMA, which the president had previously criticized. If confirmed, Hamilton would become FEMA’s first permanent administrator in Trump’s second term, taking over an agency that has faced significant challenges, including mass staff departures, policy disruptions, and a 75-day DHS shutdown that ended in April. The agency is also preparing for the upcoming summer disaster season, with a Trump-appointed council recommending sweeping reforms last week. Michael Coen, a former FEMA chief of staff, described the current moment as an opportunity to stabilize the agency. Hamilton’s return is notable given his past criticism of FEMA and his lack of prior experience as a state or local emergency management director. His initial appointment in January 2025 was controversial, as it came just days before Trump suggested eliminating FEMA. Hamilton’s removal followed a public disagreement with administration officials over the agency’s role in supporting disaster-impacted states, tribes, and territories.