Staff Reports
President Joe Biden has announced his plan to use federal funds to pay for the reconstruction of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed due to a collision with a foreign container ship. The president made this declaration from the White House’s Roosevelt Room, expressing his intention for the federal government to foot the entire bill for rebuilding the bridge and calling on Congress to support his efforts.
Biden promises US government will pay for Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key bridge reconstruction https://t.co/q57XcGRk2d https://t.co/q57XcGRk2d
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) March 27, 2024
While Biden is quick to offer aid to Baltimore, many critics are ready to call attention to his delayed response to the East Palestine, Ohio toxic train derailment last year, which is in a Republican area of Ohio. Despite promising to visit the site shortly after the incident, Biden did not make the trip until a month after the first anniversary, leaving many to question his commitment to different regions.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is set to visit Baltimore, with the National Transportation Safety Board already investigating the bridge collapse. However, concerns about the use of federal resources reach the forefront amid the administration’s response to the disaster. Additionally, flight restrictions have been put in place, affecting drone pilots in the area. It’s unclear how much more taxpayer money will be funneled into this disaster.
Despite the tragedy, the focus should be on the six missing construction workers, who were conducting maintenance on the nearly 50-year-old bridge. Their safety and rescue efforts should take precedence over the political grandstanding and finger-pointing. It’s disappointing to see the blame game unfold while these workers remain unaccounted for.
In the face of this disaster, it’s crucial that the administration shifts its focus from assigning blame to supporting the ongoing rescue efforts and ensuring the safety of those impacted. While the government’s support is necessary, the public deserves transparency about the allocation of resources and funds in the aftermath of this tragedy. President Biden’s promises must be matched with actions that prioritize the well-being of the American people.
