DHS Secretary Mullin Visits WNC, Highlighting Focus On Helene Recovery

Yesterday, the newly confirmed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin visited Western North Carolina to tour recovery efforts underway across the region.  

About his visit, Mullin said, “Today, I had the opportunity to meet the fearless State and Local leaders of western North Carolina who are rebuilding their communities after the devastation of Hurricane Helene.  I saw first hand hurricane damage still present and will be making sure  

FEMA relief continues to help Americans rebuild their homes and communities. I am humbled and honored to serve the citizens of our great Homeland. Thanks for having me.” 

The visit comes as the Department of Homeland Security officially approved $103 million for community projects and $26 million for housing in Henderson, Polk, and Yancey counties. As a reminder: Democrats are currently defunding the Department of Homeland Security, which includes FEMA, impacting relief and recovery efforts just weeks out from the start of the hurricane season. 

The steady progress of Helene recovery stands in stark contrast to Cooper’s failures to lead recovery efforts for Hurricanes Matthew and Florence. In fact, his Office of Recovery and Resiliency was labelled a “case study of dysfunction” with families still waiting for help almost a decade later.  

“After Roy Cooper abandoned North Carolinians when they needed him most, President Trump stepped up, and his administration is delivering results, surging relief and resources to families, small businesses, and communities. Even as Democrats refuse to fund DHS and FEMA, President Trump and Secretary Mullin will continue showing up for North Carolina,” said RNC Spokeswoman Emma Hall.