President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to visit areas in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia to evaluate the impact of Hurricane Helene, which has tragically claimed the lives of at least 140 individuals. This move comes amidst false claims by former President Donald Trump regarding Biden's response to the disaster.
During the visits, Biden will tour Greenville, South Carolina, and receive a briefing in Raleigh, North Carolina, while Harris will head to Georgia and North Carolina in the following days. These states hold significant importance as battlegrounds in the upcoming election, with Harris currently leading Trump in national polls.
As the affected states begin the long process of recovery and rebuilding, Biden has declared major disaster areas and may seek additional funding from Congress for aid. The efforts involve thousands of federal workers and are expected to be costly and time-consuming, according to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
Overall, the aftermath of Hurricane Helene underscores the importance of strong leadership and support in times of crisis, as well as the impact of natural disasters on both individuals and the economy. Understanding the response and recovery efforts can provide insight into the broader implications for communities and finances in the affected regions.