Appalachia is struggling to recover from the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, as residents are forced to rely on charity and local resources due to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) delayed response . The death toll has now surpassed 100, and many are left asking why the federal government wasn’t prepared.
FEMA’s website lists “equity” and “climate resilience” as higher priorities than emergency preparedness, raising concerns that the agency’s focus is on political issues instead of saving lives. These concerns were amplified as federal aid arrived days late to communities devastated by the Category 4 storm.
Deanne Criswell, FEMA’s Administrator, said that search-and-rescue teams were being sent to affected areas, but the delay left many residents feeling abandoned. Local first responders and private helicopters were crucial in the immediate aftermath, as federal assistance was slow to arrive.
President Joe Biden declined to offer any additional resources to the disaster-stricken region, stating, “We’ve given everything that we have.” This response has raised further questions about the federal government’s preparedness for major storms.
Critics argue that the Biden administration’s emphasis on “identity politics” has led to a shift in FEMA’s priorities, leaving Americans vulnerable in times of crisis. Under this administration, the agency’s mission appears to be more focused on political issues than disaster response.
As Appalachia rebuilds, the need for a more responsive and prepared FEMA has never been clearer.
