President Joe Biden is contemplating asking Congress to reconvene early from its pre-election recess to secure additional disaster funding for the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Helene. In remarks made at the White House, Biden indicated that while no specific request has been finalized, he recognizes the urgent need for supplemental financial support to aid recovery efforts.
“I may have to request that,” Biden stated, emphasizing the extensive and devastating impacts of the storm. He plans to travel to North Carolina later this week, ensuring that his visit does not interfere with ongoing rescue operations.
Biden defended his and Vice President Kamala Harris’s actions during the storm, asserting that he remained engaged and productive, even while at his Delaware beach house. “I was on the phone for at least two hours yesterday and the day before as well. I was commanding. It’s called a telephone,” he explained, addressing criticisms from former President Donald Trump, who accused him of being disengaged.
Trump is expected to visit Georgia to assess the damage and distribute relief supplies, further criticizing the Biden administration’s response. In contrast, Biden reassured those affected by the storm that federal resources are being mobilized to assist impacted areas. “I want them to know we’re not leaving until the job is done,” he affirmed.
Biden emphasized the importance of not disrupting recovery efforts with premature visits, indicating that he is committed to traveling to affected areas as soon as it is feasible. He acknowledged the profound distress experienced by communities, stating, “There’s nothing like wondering, ‘Is my husband, wife, son, daughter, mother, father alive?’”
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has indicated that the agency currently has sufficient resources to manage the disaster response, thanks to a recent funding patch from Congress. The disaster relief fund has been replenished to around $20 billion, which is expected to sustain recovery efforts through early January.
However, without an emergency disaster aid bill in the coming months, FEMA may need to adjust its spending by prioritizing critical needs. The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has left thousands without access to essential services, with over 100 confirmed fatalities and approximately 600 individuals still unaccounted for.
As recovery efforts continue, Biden has engaged with state leaders, including Governors Brian Kemp of Georgia and Roy Cooper of North Carolina, to coordinate resources and assistance. The administration is committed to ensuring that communities receive the support they need during this challenging time.
