President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris traveled separately to review the damage caused by Hurricane Helene in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. The death toll in the Southeastern states was at least 162, with Buncombe County in North Carolina reporting 57 deaths. The aftermath of the hurricane has also become a political issue as the 2024 election approaches, with President Biden and Vice President Harris facing criticism for their response.
During their visits to the affected areas, Biden and Harris pledged federal support for recovery efforts and promised to stay until the communities were fully back on their feet. Biden took an aerial tour of Asheville, NC, and visited the emergency command center in Raleigh, while Harris met with local officials in Augusta, Georgia. Both leaders emphasized the need for unity and support for those affected by the storm, putting politics aside.
The federal government has deployed thousands of workers, including soldiers, to assist with recovery efforts and provide aid to isolated communities in the affected states. FEMA has distributed millions of meals, water, and other supplies, and is preparing for a multi-billion-dollar, multi-year recovery effort.
Biden and Harris plan to continue their visits to other flood-damaged communities in the coming days, with the president heading to Georgia and Florida. They have called for bipartisan support and additional resources from Congress to help with the relief efforts. The administration is working to ensure that communities receive the necessary support and assistance to rebuild and recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
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