Biden hurricane recovery briefing

During the briefing, Biden emphasized priorities such as power restoration and debris removal, expressing condolences for the loss of life and property due to the storms. He confirmed that the federal government, including FEMA and the National Guard, is actively involved in rescue and recovery operations. The president’s remarks were marked by a humorous yet awkward moment when Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm reminded him to allow Harris to speak, leading to Biden’s repeated mislabeling of her title and a brief exchange that showcased the dynamics within his administration. Harris, participating virtually, responded by outlining her involvement in coordinating resources for affected communities and addressing issues like price-gouging in the aftermath of the hurricanes.

Key Points from the Briefing

• Hurricane Impact: Biden reported that Hurricane Milton alone caused an estimated $50 billion in damages. He noted the tragic loss of lives, with at least 92 storm-related fatalities confirmed in North Carolina and additional casualties in Florida.

• Federal Response: The president reiterated the federal government’s commitment to assist affected states, stating, “We’re going to do everything we can to help you pick back up the pieces.”

• Awkward Moments: The briefing included a notable exchange where Biden, after being nudged by Granholm, snapped “I know” when reminded to let Harris speak. He humorously referred to Granholm as his “boss,” before finally yielding the floor to Harris, mistakenly calling her “president” again.

• Call for Additional Funding: Biden indicated that more financial support from Congress would be necessary for recovery efforts, underscoring the ongoing needs of the affected regions.

This briefing not only addressed the immediate concerns surrounding hurricane recovery but also highlighted the internal dynamics and communication challenges within the Biden administration.