FEMA Official Fired After Bizarre Teleportation Claim

WHO:

CNN - Gregg Phillips, a top FEMA official, was appointed by White House officials.

CNN - The Department of Homeland Security oversees FEMA.

WHAT:

CNN - Gregg Phillips has been ousted from FEMA after making bizarre claims, including that he teleported to a Waffle House.

CNN - Phillips is reportedly taking leave for personal reasons, but sources indicate his departure was not voluntary.

WHERE:

CNN - The claims and actions took place within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security.

WHEN:

CNN - Phillips was installed at FEMA in December.

WHY:

CNN - New leadership at the Department of Homeland Security grew weary of the embarrassment surrounding Phillips and his clashes with agency leaders.

HOW:

CNN - Phillips came under national scrutiny after CNN reported on his outlandish comments made during appearances on right-wing podcasts.

(UPDATED June 26, 2026 06:21 UTC)

Gregg Phillips has been ousted from his position at FEMA after making bizarre claims, including that he teleported to a Waffle House, which drew national scrutiny following reports from CNN. Although he is reportedly taking leave for personal reasons, sources indicate that his departure was not voluntary, as new leadership at the Department of Homeland Security grew weary of the embarrassment surrounding him. Phillips had been appointed to FEMA in December, but his actions and clashes with agency leaders ultimately led to his removal.