Donald Trump, who calls climate change a hoax and who has in the past interfered with the government’s responses to major hurricanes in certain states as well as in Puerto Rico, has lied in claiming that the Biden administration has not properly responded to the needs of communities affected by hurricane Helene. More detail can be found in the article “Trump makes false claims about federal response as he campaigns in area ravaged by Hurricane Helene” (Sept. 30, TribLive).
In fact President Biden was proactive in contacting governors of all of the stricken states and in offering help in any way that he, FEMA and other government agencies can. This help was offered to red states as well as blue. FEMA was on the ground in advance in many places expected to be affected and is continuing to work with communities in rescue operations.
Meanwhile, Trump went into one of these areas as a political stunt when the large number of people and vehicles that must travel with him were in the way of those who could provide real help.
Lying about federal assistance during severe emergencies can cost lives. Yet Trump will attempt to use any tragedy to his advantage.
Robert J. Reiland
O’Hara