2 publishers · first seen Wed, 28 Oct 2026 07:45 UTC · updated Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:03 UTC
Two years after Hurricane Helene caused nearly $60 billion in damage and recovery needs in southern Appalachia, western North Carolina remains in the midst of rebuilding, with federal funding covering about 14% to 16% of the estimated needs. Early voting is underway in North Carolina, where a key Senate race and the 11th Congressional District contest are closely tied to the storm's aftermath, as voters express dissatisfaction with the government's response.
Republican Michael Whatley, described as President Donald Trump's "Helene recovery czar," faces criticism over his role, with reports showing minimal communication with recovery officials, while Democrat Roy Cooper leads in the Senate race. A poll shows half of North Carolinians are dissatisfied with the response, and $41 billion in unmet needs remains, as both parties use the recovery effort as a campaign issue.
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