Can FEMA Still Protect Us? Deanne Criswell on Disaster Response, Katrina’s Lessons, and America’s Readiness

Former FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell joins The People’s Cabinet for a conversation about the state of America’s disaster preparedness, what’s at stake this hurricane season, and why FEMA must remain nonpartisan in order to save lives.

Criswell talks to Dan Koh about:

- How FEMA has evolved since Hurricane Katrina — and where she fears the agency is slipping backwards

- How FEMA positions resources for disaster relief and long-term recovery efforts

- Lessons from Hurricane Helene, Texas flooding, and why speed and coordination matter most

- The controversy around FEMA’s Immediate Needs Assistance program and misinformation about aid

- Why FEMA’s leadership gaps could put lives at risk in future disasters

Subscribe to The People’s Cabinet on your favorite podcast platform.