Vice President Kamala Harris faced backlash on social media for announcing that the United States will provide an additional $157 million in aid to Lebanon, with many critics arguing that the administration is neglecting the needs of Americans affected by Hurricane Helene.
In a post on X, Harris stated that the aid package would be used to support the people of Lebanon in meeting their essential needs, including food, water, protection, and sanitation. However, her announcement was met with widespread criticism, particularly from those in North Carolina and other communities still reeling from the devastating effects of the hurricane.
The criticism came just a day after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the U.S. would provide nearly $157 million in aid to Lebanon. Harris’s post was seen as tone-deaf by many, who felt that the administration was prioritizing foreign aid over domestic needs.
“The people of Lebanon are indeed facing a dire humanitarian situation, but so are many Americans in the wake of Hurricane Helene,” said one critic. Harris’s post was accused of being insensitive to the struggles of those in Appalachia, who are still dealing with the aftermath of the storm.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott was among those who spoke out against Harris’s announcement, saying that it was akin to “stiff-arming” the humanitarian crisis in North Carolina. Rep. Tim Burchett also weighed in, saying that the U.S. should prioritize taking care of its own citizens first.
The criticism of Harris’s announcement was not limited to politicians, with many ordinary citizens taking to social media to express their frustration. Some pointed out that while the administration was quick to provide aid to Lebanon, many Americans were still waiting for relief from Hurricane Helene.
The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) has provided over $45 million in assistance to those affected by the hurricane, but many feel that it is not enough. In contrast, the $157 million in aid to Lebanon has been seen as a stark reminder of the administration’s priorities.
The controversy surrounding Harris’s announcement has raised questions about the administration’s commitment to supporting Americans in times of crisis. As one critic noted, if the administration is willing to provide millions of dollars in aid to Lebanon, why can’t it do the same for those affected by Hurricane Helene?
