Sep 28, 2017

General behind Katrina relief criticizes Puerto Rico response

Neighbors stands among debris outside his destroyed home as sun sets in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico. Photo: Gerald Herbert / AP

The general who helped lead relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina thinks the White House should act more swiftly on Puerto Rico, Bloomberg reports. Trump has been criticized for his response to Puerto Rico after the hurricane, and retired Gen. Russell Honore said the Department of Defense should have more authority in organizing relief for the island.

Key quote: "It's kind of like Katrina: We got it. We got it. Oh, s--t, send in the cavalry," Honore told Bloomberg. "This is a hit on White House decision making."

Puerto Rico's Governor Ricardo Rossello said that while he is please with Trump's consideration, "we still need more, and the president understands that."

Go deeper: A week after Maria, Puerto Rico is still desperate for water and supplies.

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Axios

Updated 12 mins ago - Health

World coronavirus updates

Data: The Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins; Map: Axios Visuals

France reported more than 2,500 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours — the largest single-day number since May. French officials said the situation was "clearly worsening," per France 24.

By the numbers: Over 745,600 people have died of the novel coronavirus globally and over 20.4 million have tested positive, per Johns Hopkins. Almost 12.7 million have recovered from the virus.

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Jacob Knutson

23 mins ago - Health

U.S. reports 1,485 coronavirus deaths in a single day

Healthcare workers handling coronavirus tests in Los Angeles on August 11. Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images

The U.S. reported 1,485 deaths due to the coronavirus on Wednesday, COVID Tracking Project data shows.

Why it matters: It's the highest single-day COVID-19 death toll since May 15, when the country reported 1,507 deaths. The U.S. has seen a total of 157,758 deaths from the virus.

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Rashaan Ayesh

3 hours ago - Politics & Policy

Biden campaign raises $26 million in 24 hours after announcing Harris as running mate

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Photo: Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images

Joe Biden's campaign announced on Wednesday that it raised $26 million in the 24 hours after revealing Sen. Kamala Harris as his vice presidential pick.

Why it matters: The cash influx signals that Harris has helped the Democratic presidential campaign pick up steam. Nearly 150,000 contributors were first-time donors, according to the campaign statement.