Trump Applauds Early Voters in North Carolina Amid Post-Hurricane Chaos

Former President Donald Trump visited a small, severely damaged community, promising ongoing support as voting continued.

Standing amidst debris and silt, Trump expressed amazement at the destruction left by Hurricane Helene, as well as the resilience of North Carolina residents, who set a record for early voting despite the storm’s impact. Responding to a question at an October 21 press conference near Asheville, Trump praised the voters, saying, “We love you, that’s something special.”

On October 17, over 353,000 North Carolinians voted early, breaking the state’s previous record for the first day of early voting. Despite widespread devastation, including 25 counties declared as disaster areas, over a million votes had already been cast. Trump noted the determination of residents, saying, “They lost their homes, but they’re still voting. These are people with heart.”

As he campaigns for the 2024 election, Trump added that while encouraging people to vote is important, their safety and well-being are the priority. Helene, a Category 4 storm, hit Florida in late September before moving north, causing massive flooding, power outages, and 95 deaths in North Carolina alone.

Local business owners and residents expressed gratitude for Trump’s visit, saying it lifted their spirits as they began a long recovery. Trump assured them that the nation stands with them. Brian Burpeau, whose automotive service center hosted the press event, thanked Trump, saying, “We need to know we’re not forgotten.”

Burpeau recalled being shocked when his manager informed him that his building was submerged. The damage in the region was overwhelming, with homes and businesses destroyed, and lives lost.

Although the community, located inland and typically protected by mountains, is less prone to hurricanes, the storm’s devastation was unprecedented. Various groups, including private citizens and charities like Samaritan’s Purse, have contributed to the recovery. Trump also initiated a GoFundMe campaign, raising nearly $8 million for those most affected, with fundraising still ongoing.

Amber Davis, a local resident, attended Trump’s visit with her son and mentioned that she had already voted for him, citing her support for his policies. She shared that while her home suffered some damage, other areas, like Swannanoa, appeared completely ravaged.

Mike Stewart, owner of Pine View Buildings, said his business was entirely wiped out by the storm. He expressed confidence that Trump’s presence would serve as inspiration, noting that Trump’s ability to persevere through personal challenges could motivate the community during this difficult time.

Stewart’s remarks concluded with a hopeful message, emphasizing the community’s determination to rebuild with Trump’s encouragement.