How Hurricane Helene Could Flip This Election
Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC) has raised important concerns regarding the impact of Hurricane Helene on voter turnout in North Carolina, especially as early voting is set to begin soon. With significant flooding affecting the western regions of the state, many residents find themselves stranded and unable to leave their homes. This natural disaster poses a serious challenge for a state that has emerged as a battleground in the upcoming presidential election, with polling showing a tight race between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Murphy expressed his apprehensions on Fox Business’s Mornings with Maria Bartiromo, emphasizing the potential consequences of the hurricane on the election. “This situation could flip an election,” he remarked, highlighting the fact that if residents in the conservative western areas are preoccupied with securing basic necessities like shelter, food, and medical care, their ability to participate in the election could be severely compromised.
He urged the North Carolina General Assembly to act swiftly to ensure that recovery efforts are prioritized, allowing those affected to regain stability and access the polls. Murphy noted that the state is currently in “rescue mode,” working tirelessly to assist those trapped in their homes. He cautioned that it may take “years” for the western part of North Carolina to fully recover from this disaster.
In light of the ongoing recovery efforts, Murphy encouraged citizens to contribute to relief initiatives, advising them to donate only to reputable organizations, as there are unfortunately those looking to exploit the goodwill of others during times of crisis.
With early voting scheduled to begin on October 17 and run until November 2, the urgency of addressing these challenges cannot be overstated. Polling data from mid-September indicates a competitive race in North Carolina, with Trump and Harris neck-and-neck at 48% each among likely voters. As the state navigates the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, ensuring that every voice is heard at the ballot box remains a top priority for the Republican Party.
