### Editorial Boards Rebuke Trump Over Misinformation on Hurricane Helene Response

In a strong statement, the joint editorial board of North Carolina’s two largest newspapers, The Charlotte Observer and The News & Observer, condemned former President Donald Trump’s misleading claims about the federal response to Hurricane Helene. The hurricane, which devastated the Southeast last month, resulted in at least 225 fatalities and widespread infrastructural damage.

Trump, currently the GOP presidential nominee, alongside several Republican allies, has propagated unsubstantiated assertions regarding President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris's handling of the disaster. In a rally held in Michigan on Thursday, Trump falsely accused FEMA of redirecting disaster relief funds to illegal migrants, further claiming Harris misused "billions of dollars" in FEMA resources. This accusation disregards the fact that the funds for migrant housing are separate and do not impact the FEMA disaster fund, which remains fully equipped to manage the present crisis.

Additionally, Trump’s claims included the erroneous statement that Georgia Governor Brian Kemp was unable to communicate with Biden concerning federal aid. Contrary to Trump's assertion, Governor Kemp confirmed he had spoken with Biden, who assured assistance and offered direct communication for further needs.

The joint editorial titled, "Shame on Donald Trump for worsening NC's Helene tragedy with political lies," criticizes Trump for politicizing a tragic event, creating division within the community during a time that calls for unity. They highlighted that Trump’s statement on Truth Social falsely accused federal and Democratic state officials of intentionally neglecting Republican-dominated areas, despite evidence to the contrary, including public gratitude from Republican governors in impacted regions for the prompt federal response.

The board emphasized that Trump's misinformation is detrimental, urging politicians to avoid exploiting such crises for political advantage, especially when unity is crucial. They condemned his actions as hypocritical and damaging, reaffirming that the North Carolinian community has received adequate support from their government.

Hurricane Helene, described as a Category 4 storm with peak winds of 140 mph, wreaked havoc from Perry, Florida, across Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and the Carolinas. It caused significant flooding and storm surges, particularly in Asheville, North Carolina, resulting in numerous casualties and ongoing searches for the missing.

Amidst the devastation, the race for North Carolina, a key battleground state, remains tight between Harris and Trump. While North Carolina has historically favored Republican presidential candidates, it has predominantly elected Democratic governors. Recent polls show Trump maintaining a slim lead over Harris with 48.1% to her 47.3%.

Newsweek has reached out to Trump’s spokesperson for comment, reflecting the broader media’s pursuit of clarity regarding these contentious claims.