Sep 11, 2018 - Science

What they're saying: Lawmakers push back against Trump's Maria comments

Axios

Trump sits as his desk during a meeting about Hurricane Florence — Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images

During a meeting on the approach of Hurricane Florence, President Trump said his administration's response to Hurricane Maria was "incredibly successful," calling it "one of the best jobs that's ever been done."

Why it matters: Nearly 3,000 people died as a result of Hurricane Maria, a number many lawmakers are pointing to in rebuking Trump's comments. The administration has previously faced heavy criticism for its response to the Category 4 storm that knocked out Puerto Rico's power grid and caused a humanitarian disaster.

What they're saying

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) tweeted: "I mean this seriously, not as a political dig. If you’re in Florence’s path and considering riding it out, your President just said that a hurricane response where 3,000 die is his measure of success. Get out of there."

Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) tweeted: "This is an offensive, hurtful and blatantly false comment from the president. Nearly 3,000 of our fellow citizens died in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria. That is the complete opposite of “success.”"

San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz tweeted: "Success? Federal response according to Trump in Puerto Rico a success? If he thinks the death of 3,000 people as a success God help us all."

Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) tweeted: "Nearly 3,000 people died. That is not a “success.” That is a tragedy and a disgrace."

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What they're saying: Lawmakers push back against Trump's Maria comments

What they're saying

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