As the November 5 presidential election approaches, Republican candidate Donald Trump is trailing behind Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris, according to recent Reuters/Ipsos polling. Trump criticized his opponents for their handling of storm recovery efforts, especially in North Carolina, which was severely affected by Hurricane Helene. In response, Harris accused Trump of spreading lies about the government’s response to the disaster during a Univision town hall event.
This issue of storm recovery has become politicized, with both parties aware of the impact inadequate responses can have on public opinion. Reflecting on former President George Bush’s plummeting approval ratings after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, political figures are cautious about their actions in the aftermath of natural disasters.
President Joe Biden’s administration has indicated that the Federal Emergency Management Agency will require additional funding from Congress, which is currently divided between Republicans in the House and Democrats in the Senate. Urging legislators to act swiftly, Biden’s team emphasizes the importance of effective disaster relief efforts.