ORLANDO, Fla. -- FEMA Administrator R. David Paulison today denied reports of his resignation.
After meeting with journalists this morning at the National Hurricane Conference in Orlando, Fla., several news organizations reported that he announced that he was planning to leave the agency.
"A number of media outlets are reporting today that I am resigning as FEMA Administrator," Paulison said in a statement posted on the agency's Web site. "Let me be clear: I have no plans to leave at this time, and am committed to moving FEMA's mission forward."
This was a clarification to a statement Paulison made in the meeting, noting that he would end his tenure when a new president is inaugurated next January.
"It is a fact that I serve President Bush, and therefore my service will end when we move into the next administration," the statement continues. "However, I can assure you that this announcement is not imminent.
Paulison said his energy is currently focused on preparation for the upcoming hurricane season.
