Biden’s On The Ground: Hurricane Helene Aftermath!

President Joe Biden visited the Carolinas on Wednesday to assess the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene. As the region grapples with the catastrophic aftermath of the powerful storm, the president reassured residents that the federal government is committed to helping them rebuild.

Biden’s first stop was Greenville, South Carolina, where he observed the ongoing recovery efforts and received updates from local officials and emergency personnel. Utility crews and city workers have been working tirelessly to restore power and clear debris from roadways. During the visit, Biden took an aerial tour of the storm-stricken area to gain a broader understanding of the extent of the destruction.

One of the most heavily impacted cities is Asheville, North Carolina, where entire neighborhoods remain underwater. “Much of Asheville is underwater,” Biden remarked after his aerial survey, underscoring the scale of the disaster.

In a show of federal commitment, Biden announced that North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s request for federal aid has been approved, ensuring that the federal government will cover the costs of debris removal and emergency protective measures for six months. “My heart goes out to everyone who has experienced the unthinkable loss,” Biden said during a briefing in Raleigh. “But we’re here for you.”

The president’s visit comes at a crucial time, as local authorities continue to search for survivors. On Monday, Biden reported that around 600 people remained unaccounted for, while the confirmed death toll from the storm stood at 180 by Wednesday. The situation remains dire, with residents in parts of western North Carolina still lacking access to clean water, food supplies, and other basic necessities.

Adding to the urgency of the federal response, the White House announced the deployment of 1,000 active-duty U.S. soldiers to assist in delivering food, water, and essential supplies to the hardest-hit communities. These troops will join more than 4,800 federal personnel who are already on the ground, working around the clock to aid in the recovery efforts.

Vice President Kamala Harris is also playing a critical role in the federal response, traveling to Augusta, Georgia, on Wednesday to receive updates on recovery efforts there. The storm’s impact has extended across several southern states, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. Former President Donald Trump also visited Georgia earlier in the week to assess the damage.

Despite the federal response being well underway, the scope of the destruction may require additional emergency funding from Congress. President Biden acknowledged that it might be necessary for lawmakers to return to Washington to pass supplemental funding to support ongoing recovery efforts. However, the timing of such action is uncertain, as all members of the House are currently back in their districts campaigning for re-election. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated that additional funding may not be passed until after Election Day, a delay that could further strain resources in the affected areas.

For now, recovery teams and local officials remain focused on providing immediate relief and restoring some sense of normalcy to the lives of those affected by Hurricane Helene. Western North Carolina bore the brunt of the storm’s fury, with entire sections of highways destroyed and countless homes and businesses severely damaged. Neighboring states like eastern Tennessee also experienced significant destruction, further complicating the region’s recovery.

As federal, state, and local officials work together to navigate the long road to recovery, the president’s visit signals a commitment to providing ongoing support. While much remains uncertain, the promise of federal aid, along with the presence of active-duty troops, offers hope to the thousands of families who have been displaced by this devastating storm.