President Donald Trump on Monday nominated Cameron Hamilton to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency, marking a notable return for the former acting administrator who was fired last year for defending the agency's existence.

Hamilton, a former Navy SEAL, was dismissed in May 2025 from his role as FEMA's temporary leader after testifying before a House Appropriations subcommittee. When asked by Rep. Rosa DeLauro whether FEMA should be abolished, Hamilton stated: "I do not believe it is in the best interest of the American people to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency." He was fired the following day.

The nomination comes as the Trump administration appears to be stepping back from earlier promises to dismantle FEMA, an agency that has faced criticism from the president. Hamilton's reappointment suggests a shift in the administration's approach to the disaster relief agency. If confirmed by the Senate, Hamilton would become FEMA's first permanent administrator during Trump's second term.

FEMA has experienced significant turbulence under the current administration, cycling through three temporary leaders and enduring mass staff departures. The agency also faced operational challenges during a 75-day Department of Homeland Security shutdown that ended in April. Hamilton will need to prepare the agency for the upcoming summer disaster season while implementing potential reforms recommended by a Trump-appointed council.

Hamilton's previous tenure was not without controversy. Current FEMA employees have raised concerns about decisions made during his temporary leadership, including the cessation of door-to-door survivor outreach and the cancellation of a multibillion-dollar resilience grant program. His Senate confirmation could face scrutiny over his lack of experience leading an emergency management agency, despite his background as a Navy SEAL and State Department emergency management specialist.

The nomination reflects Hamilton's willingness to defend FEMA despite knowing it could cost him his position, earning respect among emergency management professionals. He has previously stated his belief that FEMA needs major reforms while maintaining that the agency serves an essential role in disaster response.