Gregg Phillips has been appointed to lead FEMA’s Office of Response and Recovery, a top role overseeing federal disaster deployments and long-term recovery efforts, the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed.
Phillips, a data consultant with more than four decades of disaster and emergency experience, previously served with the Mississippi GOP, the Mississippi Department of Human Services, and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Phillips is widely known for his action with True the Vote, the Texas-based nonprofit that elevated him to national attention after the 2016 election.
He has been an outspoken critic of FEMA’s performance, traveling to North Carolina after Hurricane Helene and accusing the agency of failing communities. In a recent post, Phillips faulted FEMA’s contracting operations and said outside relief groups had often filled gaps left by the agency. He also cited a “meaningful and productive” call with President Trump and then–acting Administrator David Richardson, saying he was newly optimistic about reforms.
Phillips will take on what senior FEMA officials call the agency’s “second most important role,” directing the speed and effectiveness of federal support after disasters. The newly formed FEMA Review Council, created by President Trump and co-chaired by Gov. Kristi Noem, is expected to vote this week on broad reform proposals that will be sent to the White House for approval.
