Article Summary –
Disinformation surrounded the response to Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, with false claims from figures like Trump and Mark Robinson undermining the efforts of state and federal responders. FEMA and other agencies struggled against these narratives, which sowed distrust and confusion among victims.
Fact vs. Fiction: Dissecting Disinformation on North Carolina’s Storm Response
Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina with severe rain and wind, but misinformation about the state’s response has caused a crisis of its own. False claims circulated online, propagated by figures like Donald Trump and Mark Robinson, undermining the genuine efforts of state and federal responders.
Despite the active efforts to rescue survivors and set up emergency operations, Trump falsely accused Gov. Roy Cooper and other Democrats of withholding aid from Republican areas. Robinson claimed that only he and private groups were assisting, suggesting state authorities were absent.
Trump also falsely alleged Democrats were misappropriating FEMA funds for a voter fraud scheme, while online posts inaccurately stated large funds were diverted to Ukraine, limiting aid to $750 per Helene victim. These misleading statements sow confusion, especially when spread by prominent figures.
FEMA, the state department of public safety, and aid agencies have been countering these lies with factual information.
‘Turn that garbage off’
Some Republican officials, including US Sen. Thom Tillis and NC Sen. Kevin Corbin, refute these claims, calling for an end to conspiracy theories. At a press event, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell noted distrust fueled by lies could deter victims from seeking aid.
Haywood Co. Sheriff Bill Wilke and County Commission Chair Kevin Ensleys urged the public to stop the spread of falsehoods, emphasizing how it damages recovery efforts.
Gov. Cooper had declared a state of emergency and a disaster declaration, mobilizing thousands of state and federal responders. Despite Robinson’s claims of inaction, the government response was robust and ongoing.
FEMA Funding
The Truth: FEMA has enough funds for immediate Helene recovery, though it seeks more for the hurricane season. The Lie: Claims that funds were misused for immigration services are false, and FEMA funding shortfalls are not linked to illegal actions.
Republicans, controlling the House, could allocate more disaster funds. House Speaker Mike Johnson has not committed to reconvening Congress.
Financial support for victims
The Truth: FEMA offers various aid forms, including $750 for essentials. The Lie: Misleading claims suggest this is the only aid available, ignoring other support programs. Learn more about assistance options.
Controlling the weather
The Truth: Weather control is impossible. The Lie: Conspiracy theories claim Democrats engineered Helene to target Republican areas, promoted by Marjorie Taylor Greene.
‘Why hasn’t he called in the National Guard?!’
Gov. Cooper activated the National Guard early and informed the public regularly. Still, misinformation spreads easily, as seen in posts from users like Cindy on the Bay. Vigilance and verification are key to countering false narratives.
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