**Florida Distributes Free Gasoline Amid Hurricane Milton Recovery Efforts**

Amidst the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Milton, which recently ravaged parts of Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the state’s initiative to distribute free gasoline to affected residents. This measure comes as Floridians face long lines at gas stations in the wake of the devastating storm.

The Republican governor revealed that three fuel distribution sites were opened on Saturday in Plant City, Bradenton, and St. Petersburg, with plans to establish additional locations in Tampa, Sarasota, and possibly Pinellas County. These efforts aim to alleviate the pressing fuel shortages in the storm-hit areas.

Kevin Guthrie, Florida’s emergency management director, stated that millions of gallons of fuel were expected to be offloaded from the port in Tampa later the same day. He encouraged those who can afford to buy fuel to do so from commercial gas stations, emphasizing that the free gas is intended for residents who are financially struggling.

The fuel shortages have fueled criticism from Gov. DeSantis’ political opponents, including Nikki Fried, the chair of the Florida Democratic Party. Fried criticized the governor on social media, pointing out significant gas shortages in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties and calling the response a "major failure."

Hurricane Milton struck Florida earlier this week, causing deadly tornadoes, high winds, and flooding, leaving more than 1.5 million residents without power. While the hurricane wasn’t the catastrophic event that officials had feared, its impact was still severe.

According to GasBuddy, a website that monitors fuel prices and shortages, nearly 30 percent of Florida’s gas stations were out of fuel as of Friday afternoon. In response, President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration late Friday, which will provide assistance to individuals in 34 counties and additional resources for state and local governments.

As part of the recovery efforts, Florida has mobilized Florida Highway Patrol troopers to escort fuel tanker trucks and has established numerous supply distribution sites across 14 counties. These sites are providing essential items such as meals, water, tarps, and ice to those in need.

Gov. DeSantis, speaking at the newly opened fuel distribution site in Plant City, expressed the state’s commitment to ensuring residents get the supplies they need. Guthrie mentioned that they anticipate prompt federal approval for various programs aimed at helping residents with housing and home repairs due to storm damage.

President Biden is expected to visit Florida on Sunday to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Milton firsthand. Florida is now grappling with the aftermath of two major hurricanes within a span of two weeks.