Hurricane Milton has left Florida reeling and raised questions about political responses to natural disasters. The discussion highlights the misinformation surrounding FEMA's relief efforts and the challenges faced by families impacted by the storm. As international tensions simmer in the Middle East, voter priorities in the U.S. are shifting. The podcast explores how military families' opinions may sway election outcomes and scrutinizes the current administration's accountability on foreign policy issues.
Hurricane Milton's devastating impact on Florida highlights the struggles faced by low-income families and the politicization of disaster response during elections.
Escalating tensions in the Middle East emphasize the contrast between voters' domestic priorities and their expectations for U.S. foreign policy engagement.
Deep dives
The Impact of Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton has caused extensive damage in Florida, with devastating winds leading to power outages and casualties. Reports describe the extraordinary destruction brought about by tornadoes spawned by the hurricane, particularly in areas like St. Lucie. Residents from lower-income neighborhoods faced significant challenges, with some families wondering where they would sleep after losing their homes. The timely evacuation orders appeared effective, resulting in a notably lower loss of life compared to previous storms, but the devastation still left deep emotional and financial scars on the affected communities.
Misinformation and Political Ramifications
In the wake of natural disasters like Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene, misinformation regarding Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding emerged as a critical issue. Claims made on the campaign trail suggested that FEMA's funds were misallocated to assist immigrants, which has been debunked by fact-checkers. Local officials expressed frustration with FEMA's handling of claims after Hurricane Helene, indicating a demand for prompt action to address the needs of those affected by Milton. The politicization of disaster responses highlights the ongoing tension between government parties amidst a crucial election period.
Foreign Policy and Its Electoral Consequences
The conflict in the Middle East is shaping the election narrative, although voters generally prioritize domestic issues when casting their ballots. Polling indicates a growing desire for the U.S. to engage diplomatically in resolving the ongoing crisis, contrasting with the more interventionist sentiments expressed by military families. The political discourse around military action is critical as both major candidates, Trump and Harris, emphasize their unwavering support for Israel. However, the lack of clear diplomatic progress complicates how voters might perceive their effectiveness in foreign policy, particularly as the election approaches.
How Hurricane Milton and Middle East tensions may impact the US election. On this episode, the BBC’s Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Katty Kay examine the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which has resulted in at least 16 deaths in Florida. They discuss the political implications of the hurricane and how escalating tensions in the Middle East are shaping the landscape of the upcoming US elections.
Every weekend The Global Story brings you "Path to the Presidency," where we delve into the state of the race and examine what’s on the minds of those closest to it.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists around the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Aiden Johnson and Eleanor Sly
Sound engineers: Darcy O'Bree and Jack Graysmark
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode