#president biden lahaina

Schatz expressed gratitude for the presidential visit, but is calling on the federal government to take additional actions including the release of more federal funds, support for expanded financial assistance, unemployment benefits, air and water safety, and help with making the FEMA assistance application process easier for those in need.

During a stop at the inundation zone, President Biden said, “I want you to know, that on behalf of the United States of America and all the nation, the American people stand with you… To my left is the banyan tree, beloved by this community for over 150 years. Here in the former capital of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, where it stood for generations as a sacred spot of exceptional significance.” “Today it is burned but it is still standing. The tree survived for a reason. I believe it’s a very powerful symbol of what we can and will do to get through this crisis. For this, as long as it takes, we’re going to be with you. The whole country will be with you,” he said.