In a recent post on Truth Social, former President Donald Trump announced a proposal to assist Americans impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton, which have caused widespread damage, displacement, and loss of life. As he campaigns for the 2024 presidential election, Trump suggested a tax deduction plan for Florida hurricane victims wishing to purchase generators.
Trump stated that Americans could deduct the entire cost of generators purchased retroactively from September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025, from their income taxes. However, he emphasized that this plan hinges on his victory in the upcoming presidential election. He criticized the current administration’s response to the hurricanes, suggesting that his tax deduction proposal would be more beneficial than the assistance provided by the White House and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
In his October 11 post, Trump highlighted the states affected by recent storms, including North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Texas. He remarked, “Due to the unusual activity of storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters, we are going to allow you, retroactive to September 1st, 2024, to purchase a generator for your home.”
Trump’s proposal has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Detractors argue that suggesting aid is contingent on his electoral success undermines the urgency of providing support to victims in need. Social media users expressed skepticism, questioning why he would only offer help if he wins the election rather than acting as a former president.
Comments on social media included concerns about his views on climate change, with one user stating, “What is Donald Trump, who (stupidly) sees climate change as a hoax, going to do to put America on a path away from disasters of increasing magnitude? Nothing at all.” Another user criticized him for appearing to prioritize political gain over immediate support, saying, “So you gonna only help if you win the election but otherwise you have no responsibilities being a former leader, wow.”
In response to Trump’s remarks, President Joe Biden challenged him to “get a life and help” those in need. Former President Barack Obama also criticized Trump, expressing frustration over his claims regarding the Biden administration’s handling of disaster relief. During his first campaign appearance for Democrats in Pittsburgh, Obama noted, “When did that become okay?” referring to Trump’s allegations of withholding aid from Republican areas.
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