Hurricanes Shape the 2024 US Presidential Campaign in Florida
As Florida begins to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Milton, which left at least 16 dead and caused damages estimated at $50 billion, the aftermath of this extreme weather event has become a central theme in the 2024 US presidential election campaign. Power has been restored to nearly all of the 3.4 million homes affected, and schools are reopening. However, the lingering effects of the hurricane, coupled with the recent Hurricane Helene, have intensified the political battle between candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Polls indicate that the word 'hurricane' has become synonymous with the candidates, highlighting the urgency of climate issues in their campaigns. The natural disaster has not only affected the daily lives of Floridians but has also provided a backdrop for candidates to address their policies on disaster response and climate change.
Celebrity Endorsements and Religious Influences in the Election
In a time when every vote counts, celebrity endorsements are playing a significant role in shaping public opinion ahead of the November 5 election. American sprint icon Carl Lewis publicly declared his support for Kamala Harris during the Festival dello Sport in Italy, emphasizing the historic nature of her candidacy. His comments, alongside endorsements from other celebrities like Billie Eilish and Oprah Winfrey, reflect a growing trend of public figures influencing the electoral landscape.
On the Republican side, Donald Trump continues to garner support from a unique blend of celebrity and religious backing. His son, Eric Trump, has been vocal about the perceived threats against his father, framing the election as a battle against 'evil.' Meanwhile, self-proclaimed prophets like Amanda Grace are making bold predictions about divine judgment against Trump's opponents, tapping into the fervent religious sentiment that characterizes a significant portion of Trump's voter base. This intersection of celebrity, religion, and politics highlights the complex dynamics at play in the current election cycle.