Biden and Harris Assess Devastation in the Southeast After Hurricane Helene

U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited the Southeast to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Helene, which claimed over 160 lives. They reviewed recovery efforts, met with local officials, and discussed the deployment of aid and troops. The hurricane's impact could influence the upcoming election.

U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to the Southeast on Wednesday to survey the extensive devastation left by Hurricane Helene, which has resulted in the deaths of more than 160 people. Biden arrived in Greer, South Carolina, where he met with local officials, including Governor Henry McMaster and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, before embarking on an aerial tour of the impacted areas.

Prior to his departure, Biden ordered the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty troops to assist with response and recovery. According to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, nearly 1,500 structural evaluations and numerous rescues have been carried out. Former President Donald Trump has criticized Biden's response to the disaster, a claim local authorities have refuted.

Vice President Harris began her visit in Georgia and is scheduled to travel to North Carolina in the following days. More than $10 million has already been allocated to those affected by the hurricane, with significant federal personnel and resources dedicated to recovery efforts. However, Mayorkas cautioned that additional funding may be necessary if another catastrophe occurs this season.

(With inputs from agencies.)