Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has dismissed reports that he refused calls from Vice President Kamala Harris regarding federal storm aid, emphasizing his focus on hurricane preparations.
As Florida braces for the impact of Hurricane Milton, Governor Ron DeSantis has detailed extensive preparation and evacuation efforts while dismissing claims that he declined calls from Vice President Kamala Harris.
Governor DeSantis Rebuffs Harris, Focuses on Hurricane Milton Preparations
In a news conference on Monday, DeSantis stated that the state had received the necessary support from the federal government. "We have gotten what we need from the feds… the president has approved what we asked for… I’m thankful for that," he said.
DeSantis reiterated these remarks in an interview on "Fox and Friends" on Tuesday, acknowledging contact with President Biden and FEMA director. He emphasized that all requests for assistance had been met.
Governor DeSantis Rebuffs Harris, Focuses on Hurricane Milton Preparations
However, DeSantis expressed frustration with Harris's reported attempts to contact him. "My focus has not been on dealing with Kamala Harris. I saw the news report. I didn’t know that she tried to contact me," he said.
The governor maintained that his priority was the well-being of Floridians. "But I’d also say it’s not about you, Kamala. It’s about the people of Florida. My focus is exactly where it should be," he said.
Governor DeSantis Rebuffs Harris, Focuses on Hurricane Milton Preparations
DeSantis further accused Harris of playing politics. "I’ve worked on these Hurricanes under both President Trump and President Biden. Neither of them ever tried to politicize it. She’s never called on any of the storms we’ve had since she’s been vice president until apparently now. Why all of a sudden is she trying to parachute in and inject herself when she’s never shown any interest in the past? We know it’s because of politics. We know it’s because of her campaign. I have zero time to entertain these political games," he charged.
Harris, who is running for president, responded by criticizing DeSantis's actions. "People are in desperate need of support right now and playing political games at this moment in these crisis situations…is just utterly irresponsible, and it is selfish," she said.
Governor DeSantis Rebuffs Harris, Focuses on Hurricane Milton Preparations
DeSantis dismissed Harris's accusations, stating that "Harris is not even in the chain of command. She has no role in this. The idea that I should be…worrying about her when I’m focused on the task at hand is quite frankly absurd."
The war of words reflects the ongoing political tensions surrounding disaster relief, particularly in key battleground states like Florida. With the presidential election just weeks away, the federal response to hurricanes is likely to remain a contentious issue.
Governor DeSantis Rebuffs Harris, Focuses on Hurricane Milton Preparations
