Shreveport Reporter

Today, Speaker Johnson visited Western North Carolina alongside Representative Chuck Edwards and Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane recently impacted communities in the Southeast, prompting federal officials to tour the affected areas and meet with first responders and families.

Speaker Johnson emphasized the importance of congressional attention on the region, stating, "It's symbolic to show that it's the whole of Congress that has our eyes and our attention, our prayers on the community here and those who are affected." He assured residents that recovery funds would be allocated as needed.

Before Hurricane Helene made landfall, Congress passed a continuing resolution providing $20 billion to FEMA for urgent needs. However, Speaker Johnson noted concerns about the speed of federal response: "As of Monday, only 1% of those funds had actually been distributed."

Johnson explained that states must assess damages before requesting federal assistance. "As soon as those calculations are prepared, Congress will act in a bipartisan fashion," he said.

During his visit, Speaker Johnson toured Swannanoa and Biltmore Village, witnessing significant devastation. He praised local efforts at First Baptist Church in Swannanoa for organizing aid distribution despite infrastructure challenges. "They set up what is effectively a makeshift hospital in the parking lot," he observed.

Speaker Johnson highlighted community resilience amid adversity: "The people are very resilient, and they remind us of what is best about America." He also acknowledged contributions from various organizations like Samaritan's Purse and Mercury One.

He concluded by commending first responders and volunteers for their dedication: "We've seen the best of America. That's what's encouraging. We will rebuild, and better days are ahead."