Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has reportedly been dodging calls from Vice President Kamala Harris regarding storm recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. DeSantis’ aide stated that the calls from Harris seemed political, and he did not take them. DeSantis also did not meet with President Joe Biden when he visited north Florida to survey storm damage, as DeSantis had a previously scheduled press conference in another part of the state. However, DeSantis has been in direct contact with FEMA Director Deanne Criswell. When asked about the situation, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that it was up to DeSantis to decide whether or not to be present with Biden during his visit. Harris also addressed the situation, emphasizing the importance of putting politics aside during times of crisis. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, DeSantis initially claimed that the response was under control and redirected federal focus to North Carolina. Other governors have praised the federal response to the storm, while DeSantis sent Florida resources to assist in North Carolina. As Florida prepares for another major storm, Hurricane Milton, there has been no reported effort by Biden to reach out to DeSantis regarding this new disaster. Former President Donald Trump has also been involved in storm recovery efforts, making political statements about the situation.
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