Staff Reports
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited the western part of the Hawaiian island to see the devastation caused by the deadly wildfires. The couple arrived at Kahului Airport and took the time to console Governor Josh Green and members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation. They then boarded Marine One for an aerial tour of the destruction.
In Lahaina, a historic town that was virtually destroyed by the flames, Biden got a close-up look at the wreckage. The motorcade passed through neighborhoods with burnt-out homes, structures, and palm trees. The Bidens are also meeting with first responders and receiving briefings from state and local officials about the ongoing response.
The president will deliver remarks to pay tribute to the victims of the wildfires, which have claimed more than 100 lives. Biden has appointed a regional leader at the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be the chief federal response coordinator for the Maui wildfires, ensuring that there is someone from his administration overseeing long-term recovery efforts.
As Biden’s motorcade made its way through the streets of Lahaina, some people greeted him enthusiastically while others appeared to be giving him the middle finger. This is yet another example of the lack of respect some people have for our president. It’s disgraceful and unacceptable behavior.
Republicans, including Donald Trump, have criticized Biden for not doing enough in the aftermath of the wildfires. However, the White House has pushed back against these claims, stating that the president has been in close contact with emergency officials throughout the crisis. It’s typical for conservatives to try and find any reason to attack Biden, even in the face of a devastating disaster.
LANGUAGE WARNING ⚠️
WOW!!! Listen to how Maui residents respond to Biden as his motorcade passes by 😳
“Here he comes after 13 days.”
Do you think Maui residents are happy to see Biden?? 👇🏼🚨 pic.twitter.com/1m4B2mrqGW
— TONY™ (@TONYxTWO) August 22, 2023
The recovery efforts in Hawaii are still ongoing, with thousands of people without power and safe drinking water. While immediate aid has been distributed to residents, there are still challenges ahead in the application process for longer-term assistance. It’s crucial that the Biden administration continues to provide support to the people of Hawaii as they rebuild their lives and communities.
Overall, Biden’s visit to the wildfire-ravaged areas of Hawaii highlights his commitment to being present and engaged in times of crisis. It’s a stark contrast to the previous administration, which often lacked empathy and failed to take necessary action in times of need. We can be confident that President Biden will continue to prioritize the well-being of Americans, no matter the circumstances.
