By Hurricane Milton has stirred political controversy in the U.S. as President Joe Biden responded sharply to Donald Trump’s criticisms regarding the administration’s handling of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. During a press briefing, Biden told Trump to “get a life” amid accusations from the former president and his Republican allies that the White House’s response to the hurricanes has been inadequate.
As Florida faces the aftermath of Hurricane Milton and the recent impacts of Hurricane Helene, the political climate has grown increasingly tense. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have actively defended their administration, arguing that Trump’s misinformation endangers hurricane survivors.
When asked if he had contacted Trump about the misinformation, Biden expressed frustration, saying, “Are you kidding me?” He then addressed the camera directly, advising Trump to assist hurricane victims instead of spreading false claims. Biden emphasized that the public would hold Trump accountable during the upcoming election.
Rebutting Misinformation
Vice President Harris also criticized Trump, particularly his comments about wind turbines in a recent campaign speech. She stated on social media, “Yesterday, I met with the federal team working tirelessly to provide relief to those affected by Helene and Milton. Meanwhile, Donald Trump is spreading lies and discussing the sounds of wind.”
The dual hurricanes have not only caused destruction but have also deepened political divisions in the country as the election approaches. Trump, in a video message directed at Floridians, stated, “Hopefully on January 20, you’re going to have somebody who will truly help you,” referring to the inauguration date of the next president.
Trump has repeatedly targeted Harris and Biden, claiming they were absent from Washington during Hurricane Helene’s impact and alleging that the administration had not communicated with affected state governors.
Biden responded to Trump’s statements, denouncing his claims as a “barrage of lies.” He refuted accusations that funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was being misallocated, that properties affected by flooding were being seized, and that storm victims would receive only $750 in total assistance.
Threats and Misinformation
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas reported that recovery workers faced online threats, emphasizing the harmful effects of hate speech. “We are witnessing horrific hate speech,” he noted, calling for an end to such rhetoric, which can incite violence.
In Florida, Republican Governor Ron DeSantis intensified the political atmosphere by claiming Harris was using the hurricane situation for her campaign. He stated he was unaware of her attempts to contact him and dismissed her efforts as political games.
Despite the partisan tensions, Biden acknowledged DeSantis’s cooperation during their previous conversation regarding the hurricanes. However, he continued to condemn conspiracy theories, including those promoted by pro-Trump Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who claimed that the hurricanes were the result of geo-engineering. Biden called such theories “stupid” and insisted they must cease.
As the storm’s aftermath continues to unfold, the political landscape grows increasingly complex, showcasing how natural disasters intersect with election dynamics.
