Harris Pledges Continued Support to NC After Helene Visit
TL/DR –
Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris visited North Carolina, promising ongoing federal support following Hurricane Helene which killed over 100 people and left tens of thousands without power. The Biden-Harris administration deployed 1,500 active-duty troops and 7,000 federal personnel, including FEMA staff, to handle the situation. However, while the immediate, short-term emergency response phase is underway, FEMA leaders stated that more funding is needed for the long-term recovery, urging lawmakers to act quickly and provide additional resources.
Kamala Harris Commits Long-Term Federal Support for Hurricane Helene Recovery in North Carolina
Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris appreciated the state’s first responders during her visit to North Carolina, promising continued federal support amid the havoc wreaked by Hurricane Helene.
Western North Carolina was severely impacted by the hurricane, resulting in over 100 deaths and wiping out whole communities. With hundreds still missing, and tens of thousands without power, this is considered the state’s most disastrous storm in recent history. You can find more information on the hurricane’s aftermath here.
Harris expressed her gratitude towards the local and state officials for their relentless work and assured ongoing aid from the federal government. She also recognized the communal support of the resilient North Carolinians during this challenging time.
In response, Gov. Roy Cooper expressed his gratitude for the federal resources provided by FEMA since the onset of the crisis.
During her visit, Harris participated in relief efforts at a distribution center and empathized with hurricane victims, such as Angelica Wind, a resident of one of the worst-hit areas, Asheville. Harris reassured her of the federal government’s long-term commitment towards recovery. More details on Harris’ visit can be found here.
So far, the Biden-Harris administration has deployed 1,500 active-duty soldiers and nearly 7,000 federal personnel, including FEMA staff, to support the beleaguered state. FEMA has already delivered millions of meals, liters of water, generators, and tarps to the affected regions.
Currently, over 104,000 people have registered for federal assistance, and FEMA has distributed over $30 million in emergency aid, as per Gov. Cooper. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance program has also been activated by FEMA, providing hotel accommodation for almost 1,700 displaced individuals.
While FEMA assures funding for immediate relief, its leaders emphasize the need for additional resources for long-term recovery. In a recent letter to congressional leaders, President Biden requested prompt provision of extra resources to FEMA and the communities affected.
Despite the urgent need for aid, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson refused to commit to reconvening Congress before the forthcoming elections. On another note, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has been accused of exploiting the disaster for political gain. He falsely claimed that FEMA lacked funding due to expenditures on housing for undocumented immigrants, which FEMA Director Deanne Criswell has criticized.
During a CNN interview, Harris accused Trump of spreading lies about the resources available to Hurricane Helene survivors, deeming it “extraordinarily irresponsible”. She affirmed that the affected individuals are entitled to FEMA’s extensive resources designed for situations such as this.
If you are in need of FEMA assistance, homeowners and renters in 25 counties can apply by calling 1-800-621-3362 or visiting www.disasterassistance.gov. FEMA can assist with displacement, home repairs, and other serious needs caused by the storm.
—
Read More US News; North Carolina News