Story perspectives

FEMA Faces Crisis: New Administrator Warns of Shutdown Risks

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Democrats criticize FEMA Associate Administrator Gregg Phillips, appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump, for his qualifications and history of election denial and bigoted comments.
Phillips was replaced by Victoria Barton.
The ongoing DHS shutdown has lasted more than 30 days, impacting FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund, which is now at $3.6 billion.
Victoria Barton warned that the shutdown limits FEMA's disaster-response capabilities, increasing risks as hurricane season approaches.

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Story summary

Democrats criticize FEMA Associate Administrator Gregg Phillips, appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump, for his qualifications and history of election denial and bigoted comments.
Phillips was replaced by Victoria Barton.
The ongoing DHS shutdown has lasted more than 30 days, impacting FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund, which is now at $3.6 billion.
Victoria Barton warned that the shutdown limits FEMA's disaster-response capabilities, increasing risks as hurricane season approaches.