WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden announced plans to visit areas impacted by Hurricane Helene this week, with the condition of not disrupting ongoing rescue and recovery operations. The devastating storm has left a trail of destruction across the Southeast, prompting Biden to provide states with all available resources for their response efforts. During a briefing on Sunday evening, Biden described the storm’s impact as “stunning” and pledged continued support to affected communities.
In a statement to reporters, Biden mentioned his intention to address the administration’s response efforts in a scheduled speech from the White House on Monday. Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed her solidarity with the storm-ravaged areas, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive rebuilding strategy to assist those in need. Despite prior campaign engagements in Las Vegas, Harris cut her trip short and headed back to Washington for a briefing on the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Reports indicate that 30 individuals in a North Carolina county, including the city of Asheville, tragically lost their lives due to the storm, contributing to an overall death toll of at least 91 people across multiple states. Biden took the initiative to personally reach out to state and local officials in affected regions, offering ongoing support from the administration during this challenging time. The White House confirmed Biden’s commitment to assisting impacted communities for as long as necessary.
Throughout the weekend, Biden received continuous updates on the storm’s impact from key officials such as FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell and homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall. Similarly, Harris remained informed while aboard Air Force Two, underscoring the government’s coordinated efforts to address the crisis. Tasked with accelerating aid to isolated areas struggling to access assistance, Biden directed Criswell to facilitate necessary support in a timely manner.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump’s campaign announced his upcoming visit to Valdosta, Georgia, to assess the hurricane’s effects in a crucial battleground state. Expected to provide relief supplies and deliver remarks during his visit, Trump’s presence signifies the importance of addressing the storm’s aftermath and supporting affected communities. The upcoming visits of both Biden and Trump underscore the significance of mobilizing resources and offering assistance to those most in need in the wake of natural disasters.