ICYMI: Trump Visited Asheville & Greensboro After Spreading Harmful Disinformation Post-Hurricane Helene

Raleigh, N.C. — This week, former President Donald Trump visited Asheville and Greensboro, North Carolina, as the state is still reeling from the catastrophic damage caused by Hurricane Helene. In the aftermath of the disaster that left 96 people dead and 26 still missing in North Carolina, Trump spread false information about recovery efforts in the region.

“Western North Carolina is in a state of recovery and healing from one of the most harrowing storms our state has ever experienced. Donald Trump has spread misinformation during several public appearances – impeding efforts to get help to the people who need it most,” said Terryn Hall, North Carolina State Desk for Climate Power. “North Carolinians deserve elected officials who will combat climate change before it comes to our doorsteps, and in the face of disaster, will lead with character, strength, and empathy.”

Trump has a history of playing politics with climate disasters. As president, he downplayed damage after Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, diverted FEMA relief funds to ICE, and rolled back flood risk building standards. 

Trump and Vance’s Project 2025 agenda would give free rein to Big Oil companies fueling the climate crisis, dismantle the National Weather Service, put lifesaving weather alerts behind a paywall, gut the Small Business Administration’s Disaster Loan Program, make it harder for families to rebuild their lives, and cut back disaster funding. Another Trump presidency would be dangerous for the people and environment of North Carolina.

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