### DeSantis Criticizes Harris Over Hurricane Recovery Efforts

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has recently directed accusations towards Vice President Kamala Harris, claiming she has played "no role" in aiding the state's recovery from Hurricane Helene or in preparation for the looming Hurricane Milton. This dispute follows reports from NBC News and ABC News indicating that DeSantis declined to take calls from the vice president to discuss Florida's response to Hurricane Helene, which wreaked havoc in the Southeast.

During an interview on Fox News with Sean Hannity, DeSantis condemned Harris, refuting her suggestion that he is engaging in "political gamesmanship" rather than prioritizing Floridian safety. When contacted for comments, both DeSantis' office and Harris' campaign team said they were unavailable.

"For Kamala Harris to say that my sole focus on the people of Florida is somehow selfish, is delusional," DeSantis emphasized. "She has no role in this. In fact, she's been vice president for three and a half years. I've dealt with a number of storms under this administration, she has never contributed anything to any of these efforts."

DeSantis went on to argue that Harris is using this situation to gain a political advantage due to her alleged poor performance, stating, "I don't have time for political games."

A spokesperson for DeSantis informed NBC News that the governor perceived Harris' efforts to communicate as "political." Despite this, DeSantis denies screening her calls. Meanwhile, Harris has labeled DeSantis' behavior as "utterly irresponsible," claiming that he is neglecting his oath of office.

As Florida braces for the impact of Category 4 Hurricane Milton, expected to make landfall on Wednesday, the argument between DeSantis and Harris continues. DeSantis, speaking to reporters, firmly stated, "I didn't know that she had called. I'm not sure who they called. They didn't call me."

In response, Harris remarked that moments of crisis should not be politicized, urging leaders to prioritize people and set politics aside. "People are in desperate need of support right now," she said.

Amid criticisms from GOP figures about the Biden administration's handling of Hurricane Helene, President Joe Biden defended the federal response, calling out former President Donald Trump for misinformation. DeSantis, however, confirmed he communicated with Biden and FEMA director Kim Kadesch to prepare for Hurricane Milton. The White House also approved DeSantis' request for an emergency declaration in Florida.

While the National Hurricane Center has downgraded Hurricane Milton from Category 5 to Category 4, it maintains that the storm will remain "an extremely dangerous hurricane through landfall in Florida."