Biden-Harris Administration Criticized For Aid To Ukraine While Americans Remain Without Power
As hundreds of thousands of Americans remain without electricity following Hurricane Helene, the Biden-Harris administration is being criticized for its focus on foreign aid to Ukraine. USAID administrator Samantha Power posted a video from Ukraine, highlighting U.S. efforts to restore power there, while many in the U.S. are still struggling with power outages.
Power’s video, filmed at an energy substation in Ukraine, touted the U.S.’ role in helping Ukrainians keep the lights on this winter. “Thanks to the support of the American people, USAID is working with Ukrainians to keep the lights on and the heat going,” Power said.
However, the timing of the video sparked outrage, with many pointing out that over 700,000 homes and businesses in the southeastern U.S. are still without power. One social media user asked, “Americans are sitting in the dark—why are we focusing on Ukraine?”
Richard Grenell, former Acting Director of National Intelligence, joined the chorus of critics, calling Power’s video “tone-deaf” and pointing out that many Americans have lost everything due to Hurricane Helene. He questioned the administration’s decision to prioritize foreign aid while neglecting domestic disaster relief.
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has also raised concerns about FEMA’s ability to handle the ongoing crisis. According to whistleblowers, FEMA’s response to Helene has been sluggish, and Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has admitted that the agency’s budget may not last through the end of hurricane season.