Biden In Maui – U.S. President Praises Remarkable Resiliency Of People

U.S. President Joe Biden has praised the “remarkable resiliency” of the people of Maui, after wildfires killed more than 114 people on the Hawaiian island two weeks ago, and said America would stand by them for as long as it takes.

“We’re focused on what’s next. That’s rebuilding for the long term …and doing it together,” said Biden, visibly moved after a tour of the blackened city of Lahaina. He added he would make sure “your voices are heard” and local traditions and wishes were respected.

“The American people stand with you,” he told survivors of the Aug. 8 wildfires, standing alongside Governor Josh Green, Hawaii’s senators and the representative for Maui in Congress. “For as long as it takes, we’re going to be with you.”

Biden, wearing an ornate lei, later told 400 people at a community event that featured traditional music and heartfelt speeches by local leaders: “Jill and I are here to grieve with you but also we want you to know the entire country is here for you.”

He emphasized repeatedly that the rebuilding would follow the wishes of the people of Lahaina and lauded the strong sense of community he had seen during his visit.

“It’s going to be a long road,” he said, noting the symbolism of an historic banyan tree where he spoke earlier that was damaged but survived the fires.

“I know it’s a metaphor, but that’s you. That’s who you are. There’s no quit in Hawaii, there’s no quit in America, there’s no quit in us.”

In both remarks, the president shared his own grief when a vehicle accident killed his first wife and young daughter, and said he recognized what Maui people were feeling — “that hollow feeling you have in your chest like you’re being sucked into a black hole.”

Green thanked Biden for his help and praised what he called the unprecedented speed of the federal response.