Hurricane Helene Spurs Political Response in U.S.

Hurricane Helene has caused widespread destruction across the Southeastern U.S., with a death toll nearing 116 and significant flooding, particularly in North Carolina and Georgia. The Biden administration, with Vice President Kamala Harris, has faced criticism for its response, as some argue she should have returned to the region sooner from her campaign schedule. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump visited affected areas but faced backlash for previous comments viewed as lacking empathy. Political analysts note that this disaster is influencing the strategies of candidates as they navigate the campaign landscape ahead of the election. Experts at Virginia Tech highlight the long-term recovery challenges and the need for better disaster preparedness amid climate change. The event has also sparked discussions about the political implications of disaster management and candidate messaging.