Biden Made Governor Beg For Help

Georgia’s Republican Governor Brian Kemp expressed his concerns on Wednesday regarding the Biden-Harris administration’s initial response to Hurricane Helene, which wreaked havoc across his state. Kemp revealed that when the emergency declarations were first issued, they only encompassed 11 counties, leaving many rural areas without crucial aid.

“Many people, myself included, were outraged by this oversight,” Kemp stated in an interview with Augusta’s CBS affiliate, WRDW. “The storm affected up to 90 counties, and we were alarmed that the federal response didn’t reflect that reality.” He underscored the need for urgent attention to the needs of these communities, emphasizing the widespread devastation.

Kemp noted that he personally reached out to the White House, highlighting to senior officials, including President Biden’s chief of staff Jeffrey Zients and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, that rural areas were being overlooked. His advocacy proved effective; following his call, an additional 30 counties were included in the federal disaster declaration. “FEMA can still assess the situation and add more counties as necessary,” he assured, recognizing that the needs might grow as assessments continue.

Biden had issued a disaster declaration immediately after the hurricane’s landfall, allowing those affected to seek federal assistance. Kemp indicated that as of now, 41 counties have been approved for aid, with the potential for this number to rise significantly. “We expect that figure could reach anywhere from 70 to 90,” he added, citing the extensive damage in metropolitan areas, including record flooding in Atlanta.

The governor’s remarks come amidst reports highlighting the limitations of the National Flood Insurance Program, which leaves many residents in hard-hit regions without the support they need to recover. As Biden prepares for his visit to Georgia and Florida, Kemp’s call for a comprehensive and equitable response underscores the importance of ensuring that no community is left behind in times of crisis.