President Joe Biden, who has faced criticism from Republicans for his response to wildfires in Hawaii, addressed the issue of Hurricane Idalia in Florida and the surrounding states. In a statement from the White House, Biden highlighted his swift action in response to the hurricane, reaching out to Republican governors Ron DeSantis of Florida, Brian Kemp of Georgia, Henry McMaster of South Carolina, and Roy Cooper of North Carolina.
Biden stated that he spoke with Governor DeSantis early Monday morning, before the storm made landfall, and approved an emergency declaration to ensure that Florida had the necessary support to protect its citizens. He mentioned having recent conversations with DeSantis, including one during a meeting with Deanne Criswell, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Biden acknowledged that DeSantis may be tired of hearing from both of them, but it seemed that the governor welcomed the communication.
Politics did not factor into their discussions, according to Biden. Despite DeSantis being one of his critics and a potential candidate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Biden believed that the governor trusted his judgment and desire to help the people of Florida. He emphasized that their focus should be on taking care of the state’s residents rather than playing politics.
Biden also discussed his visit to Maui, Hawaii, to witness the wildfire devastation firsthand. He assured the people of Maui that federal assistance would continue as long as necessary, acknowledging that the recovery process would take time.
Regarding the accusations from Republicans that he ignored the wildfires, Biden clarified that there was no evidence to suggest his administration failed to respond promptly to requests for assistance. He welcomed a congressional investigation into his response to address any concerns.
Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region, which is known for its rural and marshy shoreline. The sparsely populated area lacks the sandy beaches that typically attract tourists and large-scale development. The shallower offshore waters contributed to the rapid buildup of storm surge, reaching heights of up to 15 feet above sea level. Local responders received distress calls from residents who refused to evacuate and are now stranded.
Biden’s previous visit to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, during Hurricane Ian showcased Governor DeSantis’ management of the state’s storm response. The positive perception of DeSantis’ handling of the situation bolstered his popularity among independent voters and even some Democrats, propelling him to a significant victory in the gubernatorial race.
In conclusion, President Biden emphasized his prompt response to Hurricane Idalia and his ongoing commitment to supporting the affected states. He aimed to prioritize the well-being of the people rather than engaging in political disputes.
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