Staff Reports
President Biden, who has been under fire for jet-setting to Ukraine while ignoring the environmental catastrophe caused by a toxic freight train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, is finally planning a trip to the devastated community. Despite the backlash, the White House is touting Biden’s “comprehensive, whole-of-government response” to the disaster, claiming that within hours of the derailment, the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transportation, and Department of Health and Human Services all swooped in to assist with the aftermath.
The White House has been quick to highlight Biden’s executive order directing Norfolk Southern to clean up the environmental damage caused by the derailment and ensure that affected communities receive federal assistance. Additionally, they are emphasizing the administration’s dedication to improving railway safety through the Bipartisan Railway Safety Act.
Biden to visit East Palestine one year after train derailment
Critics argue that Biden’s delayed visit to East Palestine is merely a political stunt to save face after neglecting the community in favor of foreign affairs. They question why it took nearly a year for the president to schedule a visit to the suffering village and suggest that the timing conveniently aligns with growing scrutiny of his priorities.
While the date of Biden’s travel to East Palestine remains unconfirmed, residents and local leaders eagerly await the president’s arrival and hope that his visit will bring the tangible support and attention they have long been seeking.
