Master Sergeant Tim Kennedy has come forward with harsh criticism of President Joe Biden’s response to Hurricane Helene, claiming that the president’s actions impeded vital rescue efforts. Kennedy, known for his military service and as a founder of the NGO Save Our Allies, expressed his concerns during an appearance on Fox News.
During the interview, Kennedy alleged that a “No Fly” order was imposed when President Biden arrived in the Southeast for a visit, which prevented helicopters from conducting rescues. “We had to land helicopters to not go rescue people so a photo op could take place,” he stated, calling this scenario “a travesty and that’s unconscionable.”
Kennedy’s team has been working tirelessly to assist those affected by the hurricane, but he noted that federal support has been lacking. He remarked, “My heart is full to see Americans rise to the occasion like they always do, but it’s not our responsibility to have to go and answer the call like this.”
Kennedy questioned the federal government’s preparedness and response, asking where the effective command center was for disaster management. Both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited affected areas recently, but critics argue that these actions came too late.
According to CNN, the death toll from Hurricane Helene has reached 227 across six states. Kennedy is not alone in his criticisms; Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson also expressed alarm over the administration’s efforts, stating that it reflects a “lack of leadership and response.”
