President Joe Biden announced a significant allocation of over $600 million for states impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton during his visit to storm-damaged areas in Florida on Sunday.
Speaking in St. Pete Beach, Biden highlighted that nearly $100 million of these funds will be directed towards improving Florida’s power infrastructure. This visit marks Biden’s second trip to the state within two weeks following the storms.
During his remarks, Biden expressed gratitude that the storms did not have as devastating an impact as initially feared, but he acknowledged the profound losses suffered by many individuals, including lives and homes.
He praised local leaders, including St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Petrila and Pinellas County Chair Kathleen Peters, for their resilience and efforts to support their communities amidst the disaster.
Florida officials have reported 17 fatalities linked to Hurricane Milton, which made landfall near Tampa last week, while many residents remain without power due to the storm’s aftermath.
The President’s visit coincided with ongoing misinformation regarding disaster relief funds, particularly claims suggesting that FEMA funds were being diverted to support undocumented immigrants. FEMA has categorically denied these claims, affirming that the Disaster Relief Fund is dedicated exclusively to disaster response and recovery.
The need for additional disaster assistance is pressing, with Florida lawmakers advocating for more funding to aid affected communities. On NBC News’ Meet the Press, House Speaker Mike Johnson R-La. stated he did not see the necessity for the House to reconvene before the upcoming elections, as he believes the existing appropriated funds should suffice for the immediate disaster relief needs.
Johnson emphasized the urgency of distributing the already allocated federal funds to support those in affected areas, acknowledging the challenges and suffering faced by residents in Florida and North Carolina.