Former President Donald Trump visited Georgia on Monday to survey the damage left by Hurricane Helene and meet with communities struggling in the aftermath of the storm.
Trump was on the ground distributing supplies, offering words of encouragement, and leading a moment of silence to honor those affected.
“We came down with truckloads of different items, from oil to water. We’re here today to stand with complete solidarity with the people of Georgia and all those suffering in the terrible aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” Trump told the press.
The storm has left millions without power, water, or reliable communication.
In response to this, Trump said he has been in contact with Elon Musk to potentially deploy Starlink to restore communication in the hardest-hit areas. “Elon will always come through,” Trump said confidently.
Criticism of Federal Response
During his visit to Valdosta, Trump criticized the federal response to the disaster, stating that the affected communities were not receiving the support they needed.
While the Biden administration claims they are doing all they can, Trump implied that the federal efforts are falling short, leaving communities to fend for themselves.
President Biden, in turn, dismissed Trump’s comments as “lies” about the federal response. “I don’t know why he does this,” Biden said in a statement.
“I don’t care what he says about me, but I care what he communicates to people that are in need. He implies that we’re not doing everything possible. We are. We are.”
Biden also announced that he would be visiting Asheville, North Carolina, to assess the damage from Hurricane Helene.
Fundraising Efforts
After seeing the devastation firsthand, the Trump campaign launched a GoFundMe page to benefit the hurricane victims.
The campaign has already raised more than $1 million to help those most affected.
Contributions came from notable figures, including former U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), who donated $500,000.
Other major donors include Bass Pro Shop, hedge fund billionaire William Ackman, UFC President Dana White, Kid Rock, U.S. Sen. John Barrass (R-WY), and personal injury attorney Dan Newlin.
“With so many across the Southeastern U.S. facing challenges after the storm, President Trump is on the ground in communities to see the aftermath firsthand,” the GoFundMe page states.
“All donations will be directed to help those most affected by Hurricane Helene. Any level of generosity will go a long way for your fellow Americans who are suffering.”
Trump’s visit comes at a time when the death toll from Hurricane Helene has surpassed 100 people, and the road to recovery is expected to be long and challenging. His presence and efforts have been praised by many in the community who feel they need leadership and support during this difficult time.
“Our hearts are with you and we are going to be with you as long as you need it,” Trump assured the crowd, flanked by a group of elected officials and Republican supporters.
Trump has not reached out to President Biden directly about the hurricane but remains focused on what he can do to support the impacted communities.