President Obama will visit Baton Rouge, La., on Tuesday to view the devastation caused by the extensive flooding in the state, the White House announced Friday.
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The president also sent surrogates to monitor and help in the disaster response, including Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson.
The Republican presidential candidate and his running mate, Indiana Gov.
To those who criticize his late arrival, Barack Obama, who ended his vacation Sunday reported via the White House that he wanted to ensure that his presence did not interfere with relief operations and clearing. But we don’t see that as a factor now that flood waters are subsiding, even if at an agonizing pace. In times of profound need, people need to see their president up close.
“I believe Mayor Giuliani got it completely wrong”, the governor said.
Shortly after arriving, Trump’s motorcade drove through the hard-hit community of Central in East Baton Rouge Parish, where ripped up carpet and flooring, furniture and the entire contents of homes were piled on the curb. First responders shouldn’t be pulled away to deal with Obama, when they are needed for search and rescue missions still, Edwards said.
“I wouldn’t live here right now. I’ve been in contact with the White House just about every day”, Edwards said at a press conference Thursday.
He said he welcomed Trump’s visit as long as it wasn’t intended as a “photo-op” for political gain.
“Because it helped to shine a spotlight on Louisiana and on the dire situation that we have here.it was helpful”, Edwards said.
Trump has not indicated if he would make such a donation.
“We’re glad you’re not playing golf in Martha’s Vineyard”.
Richard Rossi and his 4 year old great grandson Justice wade through water in search of higher ground after their home took in water in St. Amant, Louisiana, U.S., August 15, 2016.
Trump and Pence then stopped at Denham Springs High School, where they surveyed the damage and met with a few people, including the school’s principal, Kelly Jones. “What’s happened here is incredible”. I would just as soon have those people engaged in the response rather than trying to secure the president.
He added at an event in MI this evening: “To the people of Louisiana, we are with you and will always be with you”. Edwards said he suggested to Obama and presidential adviser Valerie Jarrett that they delay a trip until the initial disaster response was over and recovery efforts had started.
Clinton said that people can donate money to the Red Cross and to the Baton Rouge Area Foundation.
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Donald Trump toured the flood-stricken regions of Louisiana on Friday.
