Tornadoes and Political Storms: Florida's Twin Challenges

At least 16 people have died as Hurricane Milton tore through Florida, leaving destruction in its path. Political tensions rise between Trump and Harris ahead of the November election, as criticisms of storm recovery responses mount. Calls for emergency funding intensify in a divided Congress.

In the wake of Hurricane Milton, Florida faces a grim reality with at least 16 reported deaths and widespread devastation. The disaster has sparked a political storm, as former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris exchange barbs ahead of the November 5 presidential election.

The Biden administration is urging Congress to allocate more emergency funding to aid recovery efforts. Meanwhile, the state continues to grapple with the aftermath, including significant power outages affecting millions of residents. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that Harris is currently leading Trump in the race.

In addition to Milton's wrath, pre-existing damage from Hurricane Helene compounds the challenge for residents and officials. As recovery efforts commence, the need for bipartisan cooperation becomes increasingly apparent in a Congress starkly divided between a Republican-led House and a Democratic-controlled Senate.

(With inputs from agencies.)