Top Points:
President Trump Visits Swannanoa to Provide Support: President Trump visited Swannanoa, North Carolina, a town severely impacted by Hurricane Helene in 2024, to offer reassurance and promises of aid. His message, "You are not forgotten any longer," resonated deeply with the community, which felt neglected by the federal response under the Biden-Harris administration.
Pledge to Prioritize Recovery Efforts: Trump criticized bureaucratic delays in disaster relief and pledged to streamline funding for hurricane recovery. He promised to rebuild Swannanoa and other affected areas stronger and more resilient, highlighting his commitment to helping rural communities often overlooked by federal programs.
Community Gratitude and Renewed Hope: Local residents, many of whom felt abandoned after the hurricane, expressed gratitude for Trump’s visit and attention to their struggles. His presence and promises of aid were seen as a turning point in the town’s recovery efforts, bringing renewed hope to the community.
Full Report:
Swannanoa, North Carolina — In a town still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact in 2024, President Donald Trump made a heartfelt visit, offering hope and promises of support to a community striving to rebuild. Addressing a large gathering of residents and volunteers, Trump delivered a powerful message: "You are not forgotten any longer."
The hurricane, which struck the southeastern United States with ferocious winds and torrential rains, left Swannanoa and surrounding areas severely damaged. Homes were destroyed, businesses shuttered, and infrastructure crippled. Federal response efforts under the Biden-Harris administration were criticized for their sluggish pace, leaving many North Carolinians feeling abandoned. Trump’s visit marked a stark contrast as he pledged to prioritize disaster recovery efforts and ensure aid reached the affected areas.
“I’ve seen the strength of this community,” Trump said. “Despite the challenges, you’ve come together with resilience and determination. That’s what makes America great. I’m here to let you know that help is on the way, and we will not stop until this town is fully restored.”
During the visit, Trump toured some of the hardest-hit areas, speaking directly with families who lost everything in the storm. One Swannanoa resident, a small business owner named Linda Hayes, shared her gratitude. “When the hurricane hit, we felt forgotten. President Trump’s visit shows that someone at the top finally cares about us,” she said.
"You are not forgotten any longer," assured President Trump.
The visit also highlighted Trump’s commitment to helping rural communities, many of which have felt overlooked by federal disaster relief programs. He announced plans to establish a streamlined fund specifically for hurricane recovery efforts, promising to work closely with state and local officials to ensure the money is used effectively.
Community members gathered to thank Trump for bringing national attention to their struggles. A local pastor who joined Trump during the tour described the visit as a “turning point” for the town. “We’ve been praying for relief, and today we feel heard.”
As Swannanoa continues to rebuild, Trump’s visit serves as a beacon of hope for the many residents who have faced hardship in the wake of Hurricane Helene. His promise to prioritize their recovery resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom view his leadership as a vital step toward revitalizing their community.
References
Local interviews with Swannanoa residents.
Coverage of Hurricane Helene’s impact and recovery efforts.
Remarks from President Trump during his visit.