FEMA acting chief David Richardson resigns after criticism over delayed Texas flood response

FEMA Acting Administrator David Richardson resigned on November 17, 2025 after six months in the role, following intense criticism for failing to arrive on the ground until one week after the July 4 Texas Hill Country floods that killed at least 136 people. Richardson had no prior emergency management experience and was camping with his sons when the floods hit. FEMA Chief of Staff Karen Evans was named his successor effective December 1.