US President visits Florida to survey damage caused by Hurricane Idalia

However, he will not meet with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Mr. DeSantis, 44, is currently running for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. Mr. Biden, 80, is also running for a second term and is expected to be the Democratic nominee.

US President to Florida survey of damage caused by hurricane idalia photo 1 — US President Joe Biden and his wife. Photo: AP

Mr. Biden and Mr. DeSantis spoke frequently this week about Hurricane Idalia, which devastated Florida’s Big Bend region with Category 3 winds of nearly 125 mph.

Mr DeSantis is a fierce critic of Mr Biden and the two have clashed on sensitive issues such as COVID-19 vaccines, abortion and LGBT rights. But they met last year when Mr Biden visited Florida to assess the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian.

Mr. DeSantis is currently the second-ranked Republican candidate, behind Mr. Trump, with about 20% support. Mr. Trump currently has more than 60% support.

The White House said Mr. Biden will visit Live Oak, Florida, to take an aerial tour of the damage and receive a briefing on recovery efforts. The president and first lady will also tour a storm-ravaged community.

Biden visited Hawaii last week to survey the damage from deadly fires in Maui County. He is scheduled to travel to Delaware later this week after finishing his Florida trip.

Hoang Nam (according to Reuters)

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