Story perspectives

Trump Administration Cuts FEMA Staff, Risks Disaster Preparedness

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is cutting FEMA staff, with layoffs affecting the Cadre of On-Call Response and Recovery (CORE) teams and taking effect January 2, 2026.
CORE workers account for about 40% of FEMA’s workforce and are crucial for disaster response.
Former officials warn the layoffs will leave states unprepared for emergencies.
The FEMA Review Council may relocate staff, potentially limiting federal support during disasters.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is cutting FEMA staff, with layoffs affecting the Cadre of On-Call Response and Recovery (CORE) teams and taking effect January 2, 2026.
CORE workers account for about 40% of FEMA’s workforce and are crucial for disaster response.
Former officials warn the layoffs will leave states unprepared for emergencies.
The FEMA Review Council may relocate staff, potentially limiting federal support during disasters.