(CNN) - Staff at the Federal Emergency Management Agency were left surprised when the agency’s new acting head said he did not know the United States had a hurricane season, according to multiple sources.

David Richardson reportedly made the comments during a briefing on Monday.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said the comment was made in jest, but some staffers are concerned because Richardson has no prior experience managing natural disasters.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem appointed Richardson in May.

He is a former Marine combat veteran and martial arts instructor.

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