Speaker Johnson Criticizes Biden Administration’s Response to Hurricane Helene
Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed his dissatisfaction with the Biden administration’s response to Hurricane Helene, describing it as lacking leadership. He stated that he was “alarmed and disappointed” by the administration’s handling of the disaster, particularly FEMA’s initial response.
Johnson toured storm damage in Florida and Georgia, emphasizing that the recovery efforts will be costly and extensive. He noted that Congress had allocated roughly $20 billion in immediate funding for FEMA through the short-term federal funding bill but criticized the administration for not utilizing these resources effectively.
Johnson also pointed out that FEMA’s response was hindered by the need for detailed assessments, which he believes cannot be completed until at least 30 days after the storm, coinciding with the post-election congressional session. He urged the administration to work diligently to prepare for the recovery efforts, stating that Congress will be prepared to act once the necessary assessments are complete.
