In Maui, Joe Biden sees ‘long road’ ahead in recovering from deadly wildfires
- US president and first lady tour Maui, the scene of the worst wildfire the US has seen in over a century
- Biden says the US federal government will help Maui ‘for as long as it takes’ to recover from the disaster
US President Joe Biden on Monday praised the “remarkable resiliency” of the people of Maui, after wildfires killed more than 114 people on the Hawaiian island nearly two week ago, and said America would stand by them for as long as it takes.
“We’re focused on what’s next. That’s rebuilding for the long term … and doing it together,” said Biden, visibly moved after a tour of the blackened city of Lahaina. He added he would make sure “your voices are heard” and respect local traditions.
“The American people stand with you,” he told survivors of the August 8 wildfires, standing alongside Governor Josh Green, Hawaii’s senators and the representative for Maui in Congress. “For as long as it takes, we’re going to be with you.”
Later, Biden, wearing an ornate lei, told a community event attended by some 300 people: “Jill and I are here to grieve with you but also we want you to know the entire country is here for you”.
He emphasised repeatedly that the rebuilding would follow the wishes of the people of Lahaina and lauded the strong sense of community he had seen during his visit.