Just weeks before the official start of hurricane season, a newly surfaced internal review is casting doubt on FEMA’s ability to respond to major disasters effectively.

The report, initially reported by CNN and later obtained by CBS News, flags critical concerns over staffing shortages and confusion about FEMA’s role, as the Trump administration signals a desire to shift more disaster response responsibility to the states — and possibly dismantle the agency altogether.

“We recommended that FEMA goes away,” former President Donald Trump said earlier this year, underscoring the administration’s direction.

A Department of Homeland Security official defended the agency in a statement to CBS News, calling the report “grossly out of context” and insisting FEMA is fully mobilized for the coming hurricane season.

Despite those assurances, the agency has been in a state of upheaval. Earlier this year, FEMA saw widespread layoffs tied to budget cuts, and Acting Administrator Cam Hamilton was dismissed after publicly opposing the idea of eliminating the agency.

Florida lawmakers from both parties have expressed alarm over the findings.

“This is the wrong time for turmoil and incompetence,” said Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa). “People in Tampa Bay are still recovering from past storms, and now they’re worried about what’s coming. This follows Elon Musk’s ‘chainsaw’ approach to FEMA.”

Castor emphasized the agency’s importance, saying, “No serious policymaker who’s experienced disaster recovery would suggest abolishing FEMA.” She added, “We need real leadership, not political games.”

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Bradenton) echoed concern over the report but expressed openness to a shift in strategy.

“I support a model that gives more control to the states — they know their communities best,” Buchanan said, while also pledging to pursue congressional oversight to ensure FEMA’s readiness. He also referenced a past scandal in which FEMA employees were reportedly told to withhold assistance from homes with pro-Trump signage.

Some experts believe Florida could be better prepared than most states for a more localized response model.

“The 2025 season won’t look like 2024,” said David Merrick, director of Florida State University’s Center for Disaster Risk Policy. “Florida may be better positioned than others to respond and recover, thanks to its strong emergency management division.”

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