Amid growing concern over bureaucratic delays under the Trump administration, Ken Pagurek, head of FEMA's urban search and rescue unit, has resigned to protest current policies affecting disaster response.
FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Chief Exits, Citing Government-Induced Chaos
FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Chief Exits, Citing Government-Induced Chaos
Ken Pagurek resigns from FEMA's urban search and rescue unit, claiming bureaucratic obstacles are hampering disaster response efforts.
In a surprising turn, the leader of FEMA's urban search and rescue operations, Ken Pagurek, announced his resignation, expressing deep frustrations over the chaos instigated by the Trump administration's handling of the agency. According to sources, Pagurek has raised alarm over the mounting bureaucratic hurdles that have significantly delayed crucial disaster responses, notably during the devastating flooding in Texas this past July.
Pagurek, who has dedicated over a decade to FEMA's search and rescue branch and has served as chief for the last year, indicated that his concerns began escalating with the onset of the hurricane season. He specifically criticized new policies mandating that any expenditure exceeding $100,000 must receive personal approval from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. This change, he argues, could impede the speed and agility critical in disaster response situations.
Experts had similarly expressed alarm, highlighting that expenses during disasters can quickly accumulate to billions, where requiring such approvals could create severe bottlenecks in urgent response scenarios. In his resignation letter, Pagurek reflected thoughtfully on his decision, stating, “This decision was not made lightly, and after much reflection and prayer, it is the right path for me at this time.” The news of his resignation first emerged through CNN's reports.
Attempts to obtain further comment from Pagurek were unsuccessful, as he has since distanced himself from the agency amidst the ongoing turmoil.
