Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Obama Tours Flood-Ravaged Louisiana Amid Criticism

President Barack Obama shakes hands with Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards

Max Becherer / AP

President Obama arrived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Tuesday to tour the flood-ravaged region days after Donald Trump slammed him for not arriving sooner.

Obama was criticized last week for continuing his vacation at Martha's Vineyard rather than visiting Louisiana after flooding killed at least 13 people and displaced thousands.

White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest told reporters on Air Force One that Obama "is used to people trying to score political points, even in situations where they shouldn't."

Obama, who will visit a neighborhood in East Baton Rouge Parish, will stress the importance of long-term recovery during his press conference, Earnest said.

The president will also talk with state and local officials in Louisiana to determine whether there's more the federal government can do to help.

The immediate response's "speed and effectiveness" is a "strong and early indication that the United States government is determined to support the people of Baton Rouge in their time of urgent need," Earnest added.



from BuzzFeed - USNews http://ift.tt/2bDAcI4

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