The president and first lady saw the destruction close up and met with responders in Lahaina amid criticism of the White House response to the catastrophic blaze.
, meet with survivors and officials -- and fend off criticism that his administration responded to the disaster too slowly.
On the ground in Lahaina, the president surveyed the damage, and heard firsthand from first responders and local leaders. He also met with community elders out of the earshot of reporters. In brief remarks, Mr. Biden said the federal government will be with the people of Maui for as long as they are needed, while being"respectful" of the sacred ground and wishes of the people of Maui.
Marine One flies as U.S. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden arrive at Kahului Airport, in Maui, Hawaii, U.S., August 21, 2023."The biggest thing that the president needs to see is just the actual impact. It really feels different when you're on the ground and can see the total devastation of Lahaina," Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanna Criswell, who is traveling with the Bidens, Mr. Biden issued a major disaster declaration on Aug.
Criswell, defending the government's response during appearances on Sunday talk shows, said Mr. Biden's presence Monday should underscore his commitment to ensuring Hawaii's recovery. " adding that the fire's extreme heat meant it might be impossible to recover some remains"meaningfully."
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