Maui Widlfire: Survivor Slams Joe Biden's Hawaii Response
A heartfelt plea was broadcast on live TV as a resident, Ella Sable Tacderan, expressed her frustration and disappointment with President Joe Biden's response to the devastating Maui wildfire.
Tacderan's emotional remarks underscored the growing criticism of what many perceive as inadequate assistance and attention from the federal government, according to the NY Post.
In an emotional interview with CNN's Kaitlan Collins, Tacderan fought back tears as she questioned the absence of President Biden in the face of the historic Maui wildfire.
"It's really affecting me because where's the president?" she implored, adding, "Aren't we Americans, too? We're part of the United States. Why are we getting put in the back pocket? Why are we being ignored?"
Tacderan's anguish stems from the fact that the wildfire has wreaked havoc, claiming the lives of at least 111 people, with over 1,000 individuals still unaccounted for.
However, Biden has refrained from addressing the disaster and has postponed his visit until Monday, almost two weeks after the blaze began.
Tacderan's frustration further surfaced when discussing the assistance her community received from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
She expressed disappointment over a one-time grant of $700, deeming it a "slap in the face" given the high cost of living in Hawaii. She highlighted the financial strain of everyday expenses in the region, clarifying that the aid was inadequate.
Tacderan also highlighted a potential barrier to aid accessibility: the elderly population's lack of familiarity with technology.
This digital divide might explain cases of applicants being "turned away" from FEMA assistance.
Pres. Joe Biden Offers No Comment on Questions About Maui Wildfire
Criticism intensified as President Joe Biden's delayed visit was announced. The 80-year-old president's delayed response and apparent confusion about the name of the afflicted region have led to growing frustration.
His decision to postpone his visit due to a planned vacation in Nevada fueled public discontent.
Biden's repeated "no comment" responses to questions about the wildfire have drawn sharp criticism.
His apparent lack of engagement with the crisis and his forgetfulness about the name "Maui" have left many citizens disillusioned.
Social media has been quick to react, with commentators and citizens voicing their frustration and disappointment, FOX News noted.
Conservative commentator Steve Guest suggested that Joe Biden should have opted for a "No comment" response.
Another conservative commentator, Kate Hyde, humorously remarked that Biden might not be aware of the purpose of his visit to Hawaii and thinks it's for vacation rather than disaster relief.
Moreover, Red State columnist Buzz Patterson labeled him a "Buffoon."
Joe Biden Responds to Social Media Backlash
In the face of mounting backlash, President Biden finally announced plans to visit the affected area alongside First Lady Jill Biden.
During a speech, he expressed his intention to ensure all necessary resources are available for recovery efforts without causing disruptions.
The White House also defended Biden's response, asserting a "whole-of-government" approach to assist with the Maui wildfire crisis.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that the administration has mobilized a comprehensive response effort to support immediate and long-term recovery following the Maui wildfire, said FOX.
A spokesperson also affirmed that the relief work is an ongoing commitment and acknowledged the challenges of such a complex situation.
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This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Bert Hoover
WATCH: 'Strange behaviour': Biden staying 'very quiet' about Maui wildfires response - From Sky News Australia
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