Understanding FEMA: the U.S. Emergency Agency Trump criticized and wants to scrap

US President Donald Trump has expressed strong criticism of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which handles disaster relief in the United States. Recently, he suggested “getting rid of” FEMA and labeled it a “big disappointment.” On Sunday, he issued an executive order to set up a council to review the agency.

Trump made these remarks while visiting North Carolina and California, states recently hit by hurricanes and wildfires. He accused FEMA of mishandling relief efforts in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene struck in September 2024. The President proposed giving federal disaster funds directly to states instead of relying on FEMA.

FEMA’s interim director, Cameron Hamilton, a Trump appointee and former US Navy SEAL, responded to these criticisms. In a letter to FEMA staff, Hamilton defended the agency as “critical” to national security and disaster response.

Understanding FEMA and its role

FEMA was created in April 1979 by then-President Jimmy Carter through two executive orders. It operates under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Headquartered in Washington, DC, FEMA’s mission is to step in during disasters when local and state resources are insufficient.

The agency has a workforce of 20,000 people, which can expand to 50,000 during emergencies. It manages 10 regional offices and coordinates federal resources to support disaster-stricken areas. FEMA currently oversees 108 major disasters and 10 emergency declarations across the country.

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In December 2024, Congress approved $29 billion in funding for FEMA to continue its disaster relief efforts. However, only 17% of FEMA’s disaster-response workforce is available, according to its daily operations report.

FEMA has also faced public misconceptions, leading the agency to create a “rumor response” section on its website to address false claims.
President Trump’s criticisms have fueled debates about FEMA’s efficiency. He argues that states should manage disasters independently using federal funds, bypassing FEMA altogether. However, this proposal has drawn mixed reactions from experts and state officials, who fear it could weaken coordinated national responses during large-scale emergencies.

Despite these criticisms, FEMA continues its work under Hamilton’s leadership. While Trump questions its effectiveness, Hamilton insists the agency plays an essential role in protecting citizens and maintaining national security.