President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris both headed to the Southeast on Wednesday to survey damage wrought by Hurricane Helene, which so far is confirmed to have killed 177 people.The president said Tuesday that the cost of the massive storm could stretch into the billions of dollars."We have to jump start this recovery process," Biden said.
"People are scared to death.This is urgent."Biden's scheduled visit to North Carolina -- which is expected to be a pivotal battleground state in next month's presidential election -- and South Carolina will include an aerial tour of Asheville in western North Carolina, which was one of the region's worst hit areas.MORE: Hurricane Helene live updates: Death toll rises to 166 ahead of Biden, Harris visits"I've ensured my travel will not disrupt the ongoing response," Biden said in a post to X.
"I plan to travel to Georgia and Florida as soon as possible."Before departing the White House, Biden announced he had directed up to 1,000 active-duty troops to support the North Carolina National Guard in its Hurricane Helene response."These soldiers will speed up the delivery of life-saving supplies of food, water, and medicine to isolated communities in North Carolina -- they have the manpower and logistical capabilities to get this vital job done, and fast.They will join hundreds of North Carolina National Guard members deployed under State authorities in support of the response," Biden said in a statement.Len Frisbee dumps a wheelbarrow of dirt as he helps with clean up in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Oct.
1, 2024, in Hot Springs, N.C.Jeff Roberson/APHarris is traveling to Georgia, another battleground state.MORE: Hurricane Helene by the numbers: Catastrophic destruction covers 400 miles"The Vice President will also provide updates on Federal actions that are being taken to support emergency response and recovery efforts in Georgia and several other states throughout the southeast," her office said in a statement....