Harris slams Trump’s storm remarks | Arkansas Democrat Gazette
LAS VEGAS — Vice President Kamala Harris and the White House have criticized Donald Trump for his recent comments regarding the federal response to hurricanes Helene and Milton, suggesting that he was attempting to exploit the situation for political gain.
During a town hall event hosted by Univision in Las Vegas, Harris addressed concerns about the federal government’s disaster recovery efforts. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the dignity of those affected by the storms, stating, “In this crisis — like in so many issues that affect the people of our country — I think it’s so important that leadership recognizes the dignity to which people are entitled.” She further noted, “I have to stress that this is not a time for people to play politics.”
Trump made his remarks while speaking at the Detroit Economic Club, where he expressed sympathy for hurricane victims but also criticized the Biden administration’s response, particularly in North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. He claimed, “They’ve let those people suffer unjustly,” and has been critical of the federal aid efforts since the storms hit.
Amidst the storm responses, both Trump and Harris are making strategic visits to pivotal swing states to garner support from key voting demographics in what is expected to be a highly contested election.
In Michigan, where Trump is targeting blue-collar voters, he made negative comments about Detroit, alleging that the city was “a mess.” In contrast, Harris condemned Trump’s comments, saying he has discredited another great American city, evidencing why he is unfit for the presidency.
Trump also reiterated themes from his 2016 campaign, claiming that other countries, particularly China, are taking advantage of the U.S. economy, suggesting that powerful companies have “raped” the United States. He boasted about job numbers during his administration, despite the fact that Biden has seen a reduction in the unemployment rate, which fell to its lowest in 50 years early last year.
Meanwhile, Harris continued her campaign efforts in Arizona, focusing on increasing support among Hispanic voters. She held a rally near Phoenix after the Univision town hall and launched a new initiative called “Hombres con Harris” — which translates to “Men for Harris.” This initiative aims to engage the Latino community through various events leading up to Election Day.
During the town hall, Harris had an emotional interaction with Ivett Castillo, a Las Vegas resident who shared her struggle as an American citizen with Mexican parents. Castillo, who recently lost her mother, asked Harris about support for immigrants like her who live in the shadows. Harris responded by mentioning the bill Biden sent to Congress that aims to create pathways to citizenship for many undocumented individuals, which has yet to be addressed.
While unauthorized border crossings surged during the early years of Biden’s administration, they have seen a decrease this year due to an executive order limiting asylum claims.
In her Arizona address, Harris paid tribute to the late Republican Senator John McCain for standing up against his party to protect the Affordable Care Act, receiving enthusiastic applause despite some attendees expressing dissent regarding McCain’s opposition to the GOP repeal efforts.
Additionally, Harris urged voters in Arizona to support a state referendum aimed at protecting abortion rights and emphasized the importance of preserving tribal rights and promoting responsible water management policies.
