Trump targets Biden and Harris over hurricane response in Georgia visit
Former President Donald Trump plans to tour hurricane-stricken Georgia, criticizing the Biden administration's response to the disaster.
Kimberly Leonard reports for POLITICO.
In short:
- Trump accused President Biden and Vice President Harris of inaction during Hurricane Helene while campaigning in Pennsylvania.
- Trump will receive a briefing in Georgia and distribute relief supplies, while Biden plans to visit impacted areas later in the week.
- Both Biden and Harris expressed condolences and outlined federal disaster support, but Trump framed their efforts as insufficient.
Key quote:
“I know that everyone here sends their thoughts and prayers for the folks who have been so devastated by that hurricane and the ensuing events, in Florida, in Georgia, the Carolinas and other impacted states.”
— Vice President Kamala Harris
Why this matters:
Reality check: The Biden administration has approved disaster declarations designed to help storm survivors get the resources necessary to begin recovery efforts.
Democrats point to Project 2025, which powerful Trump supporters and funders endorse, as evidence that a second Trump administration would gut FEMA and funding for federal flood insurance. During his time as president, Trump rolled back more than 100 rules and policies meant to protect the environment and address climate change and climate-warming emissions.
Read more: The climate impact of a potential second Trump term
