President Highlights Massive Recovery Costs
President Joe Biden emphasized that the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene will require “billions of dollars” in funding. As he visited the hardest-hit areas on Thursday, Biden urged lawmakers to provide additional support to ensure the recovery process moves forward swiftly. Although the White House has yet to formally request funds from Congress, Biden and his team have indicated that a push for more resources will be made once lawmakers return from their pre-election break.
Appeal for Unity in Disaster Response
Biden expressed hope that the recovery response could rise above the intense political divisions, calling for a united effort. Both he and Vice President Kamala Harris have been actively reassuring the public of the administration’s commitment to rebuilding the Southeast. Widespread devastation in key battleground states like Georgia and North Carolina has brought the hurricane’s aftermath into focus during this election period.
Economic Damages Reach Billions
Economic losses from the storm could total up to $160 billion, according to AccuWeather estimates, potentially ranking Hurricane Helene among the top five costliest storms in U.S. history. The damage includes losses covered by private insurance, along with significant public infrastructure repairs. Early voting and mail-in ballots have been temporarily disrupted in several regions due to road damage, flooding, and power outages.
Federal Support and Challenges Ahead
Biden has already authorized the federal government to cover 100% of recovery costs in Florida and Georgia for three months. In North Carolina, the White House approved six months of total cost-sharing to aid in recovery efforts. Meanwhile, concerns have been raised that a strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association could delay relief supplies, as container ships are held up.
Biden’s tour of affected areas included aerial inspections in Florida and Georgia, as well as earlier visits to North and South Carolina. The administration remains focused on ensuring that communities receive the necessary resources to rebuild. Vice President Harris is expected to visit North Carolina soon, while former President Donald Trump is also planning a trip to the state.
