Amid rising frustration with bureaucratic delays, the chief of FEMA’s urban search and rescue unit, Ken Pagurek, has resigned, asserting that new policies during the Trump administration are jeopardizing effective disaster responses.
FEMA Search and Rescue Chief Resigns Amid Claims of Administrative Chaos
FEMA Search and Rescue Chief Resigns Amid Claims of Administrative Chaos
Ken Pagurek steps down, citing Trump administration's policies hindering efficient disaster response efforts during Texas floods.
Ken Pagurek, the leader of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) urban search and rescue division, has resigned due to ongoing frustrations regarding bureaucratic roadblocks that he claims have significantly hindered the agency’s response to recent catastrophic flooding in Texas. In discussions with colleagues, Pagurek expressed concern over what he described as “chaos” resulting from new administrative procedures initiated by the Trump administration that create unnecessary delays in urgent disaster scenarios.
Having dedicated over a decade to FEMA’s search and rescue operations, Pagurek highlighted his escalating concerns since hurricane season commenced, pointing specifically to a controversial policy mandating that all purchases exceeding $100,000 receive personal approval from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Such a requirement, he warned, could create severe bottlenecks during emergencies when expedient action is paramount.
In his resignation letter, Pagurek stated, "This decision was not made lightly, and after much reflection and prayer, it is the right path for me at this time." His resignation was first reported by CNN, underscoring the significance of his departure amidst ongoing challenges facing FEMA.
Authorities in emergency management have previously noted that disaster responses can quickly escalate into billions of dollars in expenses, reinforcing Pagurek’s view that requisite approvals on large purchases could prove detrimental to effective crisis operations.
As of now, Pagurek has not made further comments regarding his decision to resign. His exit prompts questions about the implications of administrative changes on FEMA's operational efficiency in responding to future disasters.
