House Republicans are initiating an investigation into the federal government’s handling of the devastating Lahaina wildfire. This comes as President Joe Biden faces criticism for his response to the blaze, which claimed the lives of at least 115 people and destroyed the historic Maui town.
The House Oversight and Accountability Committee announced the investigation, with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy planning to visit the disaster site this week. McCarthy first proposed an investigation last week.
“The response to the catastrophic wildfire in Maui raises serious questions, and the American people, especially those affected by this tragedy, deserve answers,” stated Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer. “As recovery efforts continue, it is our responsibility to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being utilized efficiently and effectively.”
Comer, a Republican from Kentucky, added that the committee would collaborate with other relevant committees to ensure accountability in the federal government’s response.
The wildfire, which occurred on August 8th and was exacerbated by drought and high winds, reduced the Maui town to ashes and rubble, leaving hundreds of people still missing.
Criticism of Biden’s response has presented him with a significant domestic challenge, undermining his public perception as a president who offers comfort to disaster victims and mobilizes resources swiftly. Republicans have seized on Biden’s public stance during the incident, including his “no comment” response to reporters’ questions about the deaths while on vacation in Delaware. This has opened him up to attacks from political opponents, including Republican primary frontrunner Donald Trump. A White House spokeswoman later clarified that Biden had not heard the question.
The White House has not yet provided a comment regarding the GOP investigation.
Biden promptly approved a federal disaster declaration for the island and deployed hundreds of federal workers to the area to provide assistance, according to the White House. On August 21st, he toured the devastated area and sought to reassure residents who were frustrated with his handling of the disaster, referring to it as an “unimaginable tragedy.”
“To the people of Hawaii, we stand with you for as long as it takes. I promise you, whatever you need, you will receive,” Biden assured the residents.
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