U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday praised the "significant resilience" of Maui residents, after wildfires killed more than 114 people on the island of Hawaii two weeks ago, and said America would side with them for as long as necessary.
“We are focused on the sequel. It's about building back in the long run... and doing it together," Biden said, visibly moved after a tour of the darkened city of Lahaina. He added that he will make sure that "your voice is heard" and that local traditions and wishes are respected.
He told survivors of the August bombings: “The American people stand with you. 8 Wildfires, along with Governor Josh Green, Senator of Hawaii and Representative of Maui. “As long as it is necessary, we will be with you.
Biden, wearing an ornate lei, then told 400 people at a community event featuring traditional music and heartfelt speeches from local leaders:
"Jill and I are here to offer our condolences, but we also want you to know that the whole country is here for you."
He repeatedly stressed that the reconstruction would follow the wishes of Lahaina residents and praised the strong sense of community he saw during his visit.
"It's going to be a long way," he said, noting the historic banyan tree he spoke of earlier was damaged but survived the fire.
"I know it's a metaphor, but it's you. It's who you are. There is no giving up in Hawaii, no giving up in America, no giving up in us.”
In both speeches, the president shared his grief when a car accident killed his first wife and young daughter, and said he understood what the people of Maui felt - - "the empty feeling you have in your chest as if you were sucked into a black hole."
Green thanked Biden for his help and praised what he called the unprecedented speed of the federal response.
SHAKAS, MIDDLE FINGER
Biden, who took a break from a California vacation to visit Maui, spoke after a helicopter ride with First Lady Jill Biden, the governor, and lawmakers from Kahului Airport, along the coast to the ruins of Lahaina.
In Lahaina, his convoy passed through dark residential areas interspersed with unspoiled areas on the highway from the blue sea.
Many viewers greeted the Bidens with a shaka, an extended thumb, and a little finger gesture signaling aloha, a Hawaiian word commonly used as a greeting. A few others raised their middle fingers. Biden, who is seeking re-election in 2024, has been criticized by some Republicans and others for his initial response to the Maui fires. Biden said on August 10 that he would expand federal aid to Hawaii and pledged to help anyone in need. He went several days without talking about the tragedy while vacationing at his Delaware beach house.
Democratic Senator Brian Schatz told reporters Biden asked his entire cabinet to help Maui "restore a sense of normalcy over time" and understood the island would need federal funds. long-term, not just a few weeks.
