SWANNANOA, N.C. — Former President Donald Trump visited North Carolina on Monday to survey the damage from Hurricane Helene, criticizing federal emergency responders for their handling of relief efforts, which he claims have been hindered by armed harassment and misinformation. Despite the storm’s devastation, Trump expressed confidence that it would not impact election results in the crucial battleground state.
During a press interaction, Trump defended his remarks about the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which has reportedly paused operations due to fears of militia targeting responders. He reiterated his claims that FEMA’s resources had been redirected to assist undocumented immigrants, a point previously refuted by U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards, who accompanied Trump.
“I think you have to let people know how they’re doing,” Trump stated, addressing the performance of emergency workers. “If they’re doing a poor job, we’re supposed to not say it?”
With Election Day approaching, both Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are intensifying their campaigning efforts. Trump made three stops across North Carolina, including a rally in Greenville and an event in Concord aimed at engaging Christian voters. He reiterated his stance against transgender athletes in women’s sports and emphasized his dedication to Christian advocacy during his presidency.
In contrast, Harris focused her campaign on the “blue wall,” visiting suburban regions in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, hoping to secure their electoral votes. She sought bipartisan discussions with former Republican Congressman Liz Cheney, urging party members uneasy with Trump to vote their conscience.
The impact of Hurricane Helene is being felt as many counties in North Carolina adjust polling locations and early voting sites due to storm damage. Thousands of residents remain without power or water, prompting both parties to ramp up voter outreach efforts. Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley emphasized their strategy of utilizing phone calls, mailers, and digital communications to inform voters about polling places.
Despite the widespread destruction, Trump maintained that the situation would not lead to questions about the integrity of North Carolina’s election outcomes. “I mean, we’re so impressed, and I think they have a pretty good system here,” he remarked.
Local residents, including Republican Renee Kyro, expressed concern for displaced Trump supporters and those lacking communication access to know where to vote. Kyro noted, “I’ll go door to door if I have to,” highlighting the urgency of voter outreach.
On the Democratic side, State Sen. Natalie Murdock indicated that the party is prepared to reach out to voters in affected areas, providing water and supplies through campaign offices.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper urged a unified effort to support storm survivors and counter misinformation, emphasizing that recovery should not be politicized.
As the campaign intensifies, Trump faced scrutiny regarding Republican gubernatorial nominee Mark Robinson, whose recent controversies have sparked debate. Trump declined to comment on Robinson’s current standing in the race.
The dynamic political landscape in North Carolina continues to evolve as both parties navigate the challenges presented by the recent hurricane and the upcoming election.
