Biden Says He Could Ask Congress to Pass Aid for ‘Catastrophic’ Helene Damage
President Joe Biden announced on Thursday that he is considering asking Congress to pass aid for the “catastrophic” damage caused by Hurricane Helene in the southern United States. The storm, which made landfall earlier this week, has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with many communities facing significant challenges in the aftermath.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Biden expressed his deep concern for the residents affected by the storm and pledged to do everything in his power to support them in their recovery efforts. “The damage caused by Hurricane Helene is truly devastating, and we must act quickly to provide assistance to those who have been impacted,” Biden said.
The president noted that the federal government is already working closely with state and local officials to assess the extent of the damage and coordinate relief efforts. However, he emphasized that additional resources may be needed to help communities rebuild and recover from the storm’s impact.
Biden’s comments come as lawmakers on Capitol Hill are already considering a number of emergency funding measures in response to Hurricane Helene. Some members of Congress have called for a swift and robust response to the storm, arguing that the affected communities cannot afford to wait for assistance.
If Biden decides to formally request aid from Congress, lawmakers are expected to move quickly to pass legislation to provide the necessary funding. The president’s call for assistance is likely to receive bipartisan support, as lawmakers from both parties have expressed solidarity with the victims of Hurricane Helene and a willingness to provide aid to those in need.
In the meantime, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has already begun deploying resources to the affected areas, including personnel, equipment, and supplies. The agency is working in close coordination with state and local officials to address immediate needs and begin the process of long-term recovery.
As the recovery efforts continue, Biden has urged Americans to come together and support one another in the face of this disaster. “We are a resilient nation, and we will overcome this challenge together,” the president said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of the southern United States as they work to rebuild their communities and their lives.”
In the coming days and weeks, the federal government will continue to provide assistance to those affected by Hurricane Helene, and Congress will consider additional measures to help communities recover from the storm. With strong leadership and a commitment to helping those in need, the United States will emerge from this crisis stronger than ever.