Hurricane Helene shifts climate change into focus for 2024 campaign

Hurricane Helene's destruction has thrust climate change into the spotlight of the presidential race, with both parties now debating the role of extreme weather and environmental policies.

Matthew Daly reports for The Associated Press.

In short:

• The hurricane killed at least 180 people, leaving thousands without essential services in the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida.
• President Biden and Vice President Harris have connected Helene's devastation to climate change, calling for stronger action, while Republicans argue for increased U.S. energy production.
• The storm's role in debates over the climate crisis marks a shift in the presidential campaign's focus, previously centered on other issues.

Key quote:

“Nobody can deny the impact of the climate crisis any more. They must be brain dead if they do.”

— President Joe Biden

Why this matters:

Hurricanes like Helene are growing stronger due to climate change, posing a real threat to public safety and the economy. As extreme weather increases, the debate over energy and environmental policy will shape the future of disaster resilience.

Related: Hurricane Helene's catastrophic flooding linked to climate change, says FEMA