President Joe Biden has finally arrived on the island of Maui nearly two weeks after wildfires began that swept over much of the Hawaiian island. The president was greeted with protests from local residents.
On Monday, Biden landed at Kahului Airport with first lady Jill Biden to view the devastation caused by the deadliest wildfire in over a century and comfort the island’s survivors.
Jill and I are on our way to Hawai'i following devastating wildfires.
We’ll meet with first responders, spend time with families and community members, and witness what will be required for the community to recover. Throughout our efforts, we are focused on respecting sacred…
— President Biden (@POTUS) August 21, 2023
Governor Josh Green and his wife, Jaime Green, welcomed the president along with some members of Congress. However, the president and first lady did not have the most welcoming arrival, as several locals decided to gather and show their outrage at Biden’s slow response.
Residents held signs with messages such as: “He’s too late,” “He should’ve been here much earlier,” and “Actions speak louder than words.”
Maui residents are lining the road amid Biden's visit — with signs saying "he's too late," "he should've been here much earlier," and "actions speak louder than words." pic.twitter.com/Qnu6j3ogTt
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 21, 2023
Biden’s speech
Biden, who has been the target of criticism for ignoring the press when asked about the tragedy in Hawaii, assured that his administration has been attentive and responsive.
“As soon as I got the governor — governor’s request, I signed the master — the major disaster declaration that mobilized the whole-of-government response (...) For example, the Coast Guard and Navy immediately supported maritime search and rescue operations, while the Army helped fire suppression,” he said, assuring that they are now focusing on the search and rescue of more people.
During the speech, the president said he was the one who tracked down the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help the survivors.
“We’re working to help remove the debris, repair roads and restore power. Additionally, my Department of Homeland — of Housing and Urban Development is working with the state to make sure survivors can move from emergency shelters into temporary housing to finally have a permanent place to call home as well,” he reported.
Join me as I deliver remarks on Maui, Hawai'i to discuss the ongoing disaster response and reiterate my Administration's actions to support recovery. https://t.co/bxAbfA1hDp
— President Biden (@POTUS) August 21, 2023
Although it took the president nearly two weeks to finally go to the island, he affirmed that his government would be with the people of Hawaii helping “as long as it takes.”
“May God bless all those we’ve lost. May God find those who we haven’t determined yet. And may God bless you all. And may God protect our troops,” he concluded.
