Republicans Tackle Misinformation on Hurricanes

U.S. officials grapple with misinformation about hurricanes, with notable figures like Rep. Chuck Edwards and Sen. Thom Tillis denouncing falsehoods spread by fellow party members, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, the need for accurate information becomes critical.

U.S. officials are working to counteract misinformation regarding natural disasters, particularly recent hurricanes impacting the nation. At least three congressional Republicans have publicly denounced conspiracy theories shared by members of their own party.

Representative Chuck Edwards of North Carolina, which suffered significant flooding from Hurricane Helene in September, criticized these "outrageous rumors" as dangerous and disruptive. Florida is now preparing for Hurricane Milton along its western coast, complicating efforts to maintain clear communication.

Misleading claims have come from sources such as Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, with officials like Edwards and Senator Thom Tillis urging vigilance and truth-checking. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has condemned the continuation of these false narratives as harmful distractions during a critical time.

(With inputs from agencies.)