The president toured a neighborhood in East Baton Rouge Parish ravaged in the widespread flooding that has claimed more than a dozen lives and damaged some 60,000 homes. Afterward, he thanked first responders, the National Guard and “all the good neighbors” who rescued people as the water rose.
“I come here, first and foremost, to say that the prayers of the entire nation are with everybody who lost loved ones,” Obama said. “We are heartbroken by the loss of life. There are also people who are still desperately trying to track down friends and family. We’re going to keep on helping them every way that we can.”
Obama also praised the Federal Emergency Management Agency for its work on the ground. “A lot of homes have flood insurance, but a lot of homes don’t,” he said, saying he had advised FEMA chief Craig Fugate to “get money out as quickly as possible” to residents who are beginning to rebuild.
“[W]hat I want the people of Louisiana to know is that you’re not alone on this,” Obama said. “Even after the TV cameras leave, the whole country is going to continue to support you and help you until we get folks back in their homes and lives are rebuilt.”
Before departing Baton Rouge, the president will meet with the family of Alton Sterling, who was shot and killed by a police officer there in July, as well as with the families of local law enforcement officers who were killed and injured by a gunman later that same month.
At least 13 people died in the flooding from a storm that hit the area Aug. 11 and lingered for days. The Red Cross estimates the recovery will cost at least $30 million. President Obama signed a Louisiana disaster declarationon Aug. 14, making federal disaster funding available.
Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson arrived in Baton Rouge on Aug. 18. His agency is in charge of the federal disaster response.
The White House released a statement the afternoon of Aug. 19, announcing Obama’s trip and saying, “The President is mindful of the impact that his travel has on first responders and wants to ensure that his presence does not interfere with ongoing recovery efforts.”
That same day, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and running mate Mike Pence visited areas affected by the flood. Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, who has not toured Louisiana, released a statement saying that “relief efforts can’t afford any distractions” and urging people to donate.