Former US President Donald Trump visited Valdosta, Georgia, on Monday to lend support to those affected by the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene, according to the New York Post. Trump expressed solidarity with the local community, saying, “We’re here to stand in complete solidarity with the people of Georgia and with all of those suffering in the terrible aftermath of Hurricane Helene.”
The hurricane has claimed the lives of about 100 people, with severe impacts reported across multiple states, including Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and Alabama.The storm has caused widespread destruction, uprooting homes and resulting in flooding that has left around 600 individuals unaccounted for.
Trump highlighted his commitment to aid those affected, saying, “We are going to be with you as long as you need. You’re in our prayers… but the end result is, it’s going to be good. We just wish so many people weren’t so badly hurt.” He announced that he had partnered with the relief organisation Samaritan’s Purse to deliver truckloads of essential supplies, including gasoline and construction tools.
In a bid to restore communications in the devastated areas, Trump revealed that he had spoken with Elon Musk about utilising Starlink satellite internet. “I just spoke to Elon [Musk]. We want to get Starlink hooked up because they have no communication whatsoever,” he said.
Trump also urged current President Joe Biden and vice [resident Kamala Harris to increase federal involvement in the relief efforts. “We do need some help from the federal government… that governor needs to, he’s been trying to get them,” he remarked, referring to the need for federal support in the recovery process.
Earlier on the same day, Biden had addressed the hurricane, indicating his willingness to visit affected areas and assuring the public that FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell was on the ground in North Carolina.