Ron DeSantis, the Republican governor of Florida, has been reported to have refused calls from Vice President Kamala Harris in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The reason cited was that the emergency relief calls 'seemed political,' according to an aide close to DeSantis.
2. Allegations of Politicization in Storm Response
DeSantis's decision to avoid Harris's calls has been criticized by the White House, which has accused him of politicizing the storm response. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that it was 'for the governor to speak to,' but emphasized that the executive office had invited DeSantis to survey the damage from Hurricane Helene alongside President Joe Biden.
3. Focus on FEMA Over White House Calls
Instead of engaging with the White House, DeSantis has been in contact with FEMA Director Deanne Criswell. This indicates a focus on federal emergency management efforts rather than direct communication with the Biden-Harris administration.
4. Criticism for Not Extending Voter Registration Deadline
Despite the impending disaster of Hurricane Milton, DeSantis has not altered the state's voting procedures or extended the voter registration deadline. This decision has been criticized as insensitive and politically motivated.
5. Impact on Voting Amidst Hurricanes
Extreme weather conditions caused by Hurricane Helene have already disrupted postal services in North Carolina, potentially delaying early and mail-in voting in a crucial swing state. This highlights the challenges faced by voters during natural disasters.
6. False Claims About FEMA Funding
Republicans have falsely claimed that the Biden administration diverted emergency relief funds from FEMA to aid immigration efforts. FEMA has vehemently rejected these charges, describing them as 'frankly ridiculous and just plain false.'
7. Ongoing Threats from Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton is intensifying in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to hit Florida's Gulf Coast by Wednesday evening. This powerful storm could unleash destructive winds and perilous storm surges, further complicating the state's recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.
