Former President Donald Trump is set to visit the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Helene, offering support to devastated communities across the southeastern United States. The Trump campaign announced plans for the former president to travel to Valdosta, Georgia, where he will receive a briefing on the widespread destruction, help facilitate relief efforts, and deliver remarks to the press. Helene, which has drawn comparisons to Hurricane Katrina, has caused catastrophic damage across several states, particularly in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
Hurricane Helene slammed the American South with unprecedented force, leaving parts of North Carolina, especially the western regions, in what some have described as “apocalyptic” conditions. In Asheville, the damage was especially severe, with widespread flooding wiping out entire buildings and infrastructure. State officials continue to urge people to stay away from the area unless they are directly involved in rescue or relief efforts.
The entire city of Asheville, North Carolina is under water.
The people are using starlink to let their loved ones know they’re alive.
Why isn’t the media talking about this?
Where is Biden and Kamala?pic.twitter.com/4fda6Df0KG
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) September 29, 2024
In response to the devastation, the North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) activated over 500 personnel to assist with search and rescue operations, with 119 people and 11 pets already saved across 16 air missions. However, the challenges are far from over as the death toll has climbed to over 70, with many more feared lost in the wreckage. The storm has also caused billions of dollars in damage, further complicating recovery efforts.
As federal and state officials work to manage the disaster, there has been growing frustration over the perceived lack of response from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. While Biden did take the necessary steps to declare public health emergencies in the affected states, including North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee, his decision to spend the weekend vacationing at Rehoboth Beach has drawn sharp criticism. Meanwhile, Harris attended campaign fundraisers on the West Coast, a move that critics argue highlights her lack of urgency in addressing the crisis.
Do you think Kamala Harris and Joe Biden are ignoring the victims of Hurricane Helene because the areas most affected are Trump strongholds?
YES or NO? pic.twitter.com/Y1qYx3oxhr
— The Trump Train 🚂🇺🇸 (@The_Trump_Train) September 29, 2024
In an apparent attempt to counter the backlash, Harris posted a photo on social media late Sunday showing her in what appeared to be an official briefing call with FEMA and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. In the post, Harris claimed she had been briefed on the latest developments and reassured the public that the administration was fully engaged in supporting recovery efforts. However, the photo itself has stirred even more criticism, with many questioning the timing and authenticity of her actions.
The juxtaposition between the two leaders has not gone unnoticed. Trump, who led a prayer for hurricane victims during a rally in Erie, Pennsylvania, struck a different tone, expressing genuine concern for those affected by the disaster. “It’s been absolutely devastating… God be with you all,” Trump said before leading his supporters in a moment of reflection.
Headset not plugged into the phone really says it all here. https://t.co/C1bEsJ0In6 pic.twitter.com/nqTWxUYs91
— sentient 6 (@sentientsixp) September 30, 2024
On the other hand, Harris’ delayed public response and apparent detachment from the situation have amplified frustrations. Posting a staged-looking photo two days after the storm’s destruction and after prioritizing campaign fundraising over immediate disaster response has left many feeling that the administration’s concern for hurricane victims is more performative than real.
While Trump prepares to meet with residents and assist with relief efforts firsthand, the contrast with Harris’ response could not be more stark. Harris’ actions, or lack thereof, seem to reflect a broader pattern of disconnect, where optics and political gamesmanship take precedence over genuine leadership and empathy. For those suffering in the storm’s aftermath, the difference between the two leaders’ approaches is glaring.
