Article Summary –
Kamala Harris visited North Carolina to pledge federal support following Hurricane Helene, which killed over 100. Harris praised responders and urged continued aid, while Trump criticized the response, spreading misinformation. FEMA has deployed thousands and provided extensive resources, but needs more long-term funding.
Kamala Harris lauds emergency responders, pledging long-term federal support for Hurricane Helene recovery.
Democratic nominee Kamala Harris visited North Carolina, commending the “heroes among us” and vowing federal aid as efforts continue post-Hurricane Helene.
The hurricane devastated western North Carolina, causing over 100 fatalities, with many missing and thousands without electricity, marking it as the state’s most severe storm in history.
During a briefing with officials, Harris expressed gratitude to those working tirelessly and assured continued federal aid. She admired strangers offering shelter, food, and companionship.
Gov. Roy Cooper expressed appreciation for federal resources, noting FEMA’s active involvement since the storm’s onset.
At a distribution center, Harris packed aid kits and reassured resident Angelica Wind of ongoing federal support for affected communities.
The Biden-Harris administration deployed 1,500 troops, including Fort Liberty personnel, to distribute necessities to survivors, according to the White House.
Nearly 7,000 federal workers, including FEMA staff, are involved. FEMA reports delivery of 15.6 million meals, 13.9 million liters of water, 157 generators, and over 505,000 tarps to the region.
As of Monday, more than 104,000 individuals registered for federal assistance, with FEMA distributing over $30 million in emergency aid, as stated by Gov. Cooper.
While FEMA has sufficient short-term funds, it requires more for long-term recovery. President Biden urged Congress to allocate additional resources to FEMA in a letter.
Biden also sought increased funding for the Small Business Administration’s disaster loan program, crucial for recovery efforts.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has not committed to reconvening Congress for hurricane relief before the election, amid political tensions.
Republican nominee Donald Trump criticized the hurricane response, alleging neglect by the Biden-Harris administration, despite active federal support.
Trump falsely claimed FEMA’s funds were misused, leading to minimal disaster aid, a claim debunked by FEMA Director Deanne Criswell.
Harris urged Trump to cease misinformation, emphasizing available federal resources for affected individuals.
For FEMA assistance, homeowners and renters in 25 counties can apply via disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 for support with displacement and home repairs.
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