Washington, D.C. (828NewsNow) — In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation across the southeastern U.S., both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the nation, emphasizing the federal government’s ongoing commitment to aiding recovery efforts. Speaking separately but with unified messages, the President and Vice President underscored their administration’s priority in supporting affected communities and ensuring swift recovery.
Copies of President Biden and Vice President Harris Remarks:
During his remarks, President Biden detailed the extensive federal response already underway and pledged ongoing support for states devastated by the hurricane, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. “We will spare no effort or resource to help communities rebuild and recover,” Biden said. He expressed sympathy for the victims and reiterated his administration’s commitment to assist those in desperate need of resources and shelter.
Biden emphasized the importance of a coordinated federal, state, and local effort in addressing both the immediate aftermath and long-term recovery from the disaster. “We’ve deployed thousands of personnel from FEMA and other federal agencies to provide immediate aid, restore power, and distribute vital supplies,” the President noted.
Vice President Harris followed up with her own remarks, personally addressing FEMA staff and thanking them for their round-the-clock efforts. “I know how hard you work,” Harris said, recognizing the personal toll the disaster has taken on both the affected residents and those tasked with aiding them. She praised FEMA’s on-the-ground response, which has included more than 3,300 federal personnel providing food, water, generators, and coordinating efforts to restore critical infrastructure.
Both leaders noted the severity of the storm’s impact, with Harris describing the destruction as “heartbreaking.” Thousands of families have lost their homes, entire neighborhoods have been destroyed, and millions remain without power. Already, nearly 100 people have been confirmed dead, and hundreds more are missing. The storm has left major roads impassable, cutting off several communities from critical resources.
President Biden confirmed that he has spoken with governors and local officials from the impacted states and is coordinating closely to ensure all available resources are deployed effectively. “This is a national emergency, and the full power of the federal government is at the disposal of those affected,” he stated.
The President and Vice President’s messages to the nation were clear: the federal government will remain involved in both the immediate relief efforts and the long-term rebuilding process. “We will be with you as long as it takes,” Harris said, echoing Biden’s earlier commitment. Both leaders highlighted the resilience of Americans in times of crisis, with Harris noting how communities have come together to support one another.
In closing, Biden praised first responders, FEMA staff, and volunteers across the country for their unwavering dedication, describing them as “the very best of America.” Both leaders urged continued cooperation across all levels of government and the private sector to ensure a swift recovery from one of the most destructive storms the nation has seen in years.