Kamala Harris Vows Continued Federal Support During Visit to Hurricane-Hit North Carolina

 

Vice President Kamala Harris visited North Carolina on Saturday, offering assurances of ongoing federal support in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. During her second visit to the disaster-stricken region within four days, Harris praised the "heroes among us" who have been tirelessly working in rescue and recovery efforts.

Starting her trip in Charlotte, Harris received a briefing from state and local officials, expressing gratitude for both the workers on the ground and those assisting behind the scenes. She emphasized that federal assistance would continue to flow, commending the many individuals providing shelter, food, and support to those in need.

Harris' visit followed a stop by former President Donald Trump, who had criticized the federal response to the storm, particularly in North Carolina’s Appalachian region, where at least 200 lives were lost. Trump claimed that the state had received "lousy treatment" from federal agencies. Additionally, Trump reignited his criticisms of climate change, calling it "one of the great scams," despite widespread scientific consensus linking global warming to the intensification of storms like Helene.

While Harris packed aid kits at a distribution center in Charlotte, she met survivors from the hardest-hit areas, including Asheville. She assured them of continued federal commitment, telling volunteers, "We're here for the long haul." She also praised truck drivers and volunteers, calling them "the heroes among us" for their vital roles in relief efforts.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper reported that over 50,000 people had registered for FEMA assistance, with around $6 million in aid already distributed. Cooper expressed gratitude for the federal support, noting that FEMA had been involved since the early stages of the crisis.

As the hurricane’s aftermath unfolds, political figures like Harris and Trump have been actively showing their support to affected communities. With the 2024 elections approaching, the handling of disaster relief in key states like North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia could have significant political implications.

Earlier in the week, Harris visited Georgia, distributing meals and offering support to families impacted by the storm. President Joe Biden also visited the region, meeting with farmers and assessing crop damage. In a letter to Congress, Biden emphasized the need for additional funds for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, warning of a potential shortfall by the end of the year.