President Biden gave an update Thursday on the government’s aid efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, urging Americans affected by the hurricane to continue to be careful because of conditions that still pose a danger.
“We’ve had search and rescue teams at the ready for any calls for help this morning,” he said at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. “There are still very dangerous conditions in the state, and people should wait to be given the all clear by their leaders before they go out. We know from previous hurricanes that it’s often the case that more lives are lost in the days following the storm than actually during the storm itself.”
He also called on lawmakers to “move as rapidly as they can” on emergency funding, particularly for small businesses because the disaster relief fund for loans for these businesses is running precariously low.
Mr. Biden said he and Vice President Harris “have been in constant contact with the state and local officials, and we’re offering everything they need. I must have spoken to somewhere between 10 and 15 mayors and county executives, and all of the governors.” He thanked first responders on the ground “for your professionalism, your dedication to every mission you’re given.”
He also warned against the spread of misinformation around the hurricane.
“Vice President Harris and I said yesterday, and we’ll say it again: To anyone who seeks to take advantage of our fellow Americans’ desperation, whether you’re a company engaging in price gouging or a citizen trying to scam your neighbors, we will go after you and we will hold you accountable,” he said.
On Wednesday, Mr. Biden criticized former President Trump for leading the “onslaught of lies” about government hurricane aid. He addressed a comment to Trump Thursday, saying, “Former President Trump, get a life, man. Help these people.”