Trump Organization’s Event at Doral Raises Eyebrows Amid Federal Response Debate

As Hurricane Milton bears down on Florida, the Trump Organization opens its doors to linemen, offering a stark contrast to federal response criticism.

At a Glance

Trump National Doral Miami is hosting 275 Florida Power & Light linemen for free
Hurricane Milton, a Category 4 storm, is expected to be the worst to hit Florida’s west coast in over a century
The gesture comes amid criticism of the federal government’s disaster response
Mandatory evacuation orders affect approximately 5.9 million people in Florida
Former President Trump recently raised over $7 million for Hurricane Helene victims

Trump Organization Extends Hospitality to Hurricane Responders

As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida’s western coast, the Trump Organization has stepped up to support recovery efforts by offering complimentary accommodations to 275 Florida Power & Light (FPL) linemen at Trump National Doral Miami. This gesture comes at a critical time when the state is bracing for what could be the most severe storm to hit its west coast in over a century.

Eric Trump, son of former President Donald Trump, shared the news on social media, posting a video and photo of the linemen receiving their room assignments. The move has garnered praise from supporters and highlights the Trump family’s commitment to community support during times of crisis.

Trump Doral hosts linemen for Hurricane Milton: ‘The Trump family appreciates you’https://t.co/FVqVH1kXs7

— Florida’s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) October 10, 2024

Hurricane Milton’s Threat and Preparedness Efforts

Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall as a Category 4 storm, bringing winds over 100 mph, storm surges up to 15 feet, and up to 18 inches of rain. The severity of the situation has prompted mandatory evacuation orders affecting approximately 5.9 million people in Florida, with 3.3 million in Tampa alone.

“Safety is our top priority here at FPL and we’re urging our customers to keep safety top of mind,” Kamrel Eppinger said. “This is a hurricane that has the potential to bring extensive flooding, heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and storm surges which could ultimately create challenges to our restoration and potentially lead to widespread and extended outages.” – Source

In response to the impending disaster, Governor Ron DeSantis has activated and prestaged over 50,000 linemen for recovery efforts. The governor has advised Floridians to prepare for potential power outages, assuring them of the readiness of recovery assets.

Federal Response and Political Implications

President Joe Biden has approved an emergency declaration for Florida and deployed search and rescue teams and essential supplies to the region. However, the Trump Organization’s gesture comes amid ongoing criticism of the federal government’s disaster response capabilities.

“Honored to have 275 incredible linemen from FPL at @TrumpDoral as they get ready to respond to the aftermath of Hurricane #Milton! You are amazing and the Trump Family, and entire state of Florida, appreciates you! Enjoy the rooms – they are the best in Florida! Be safe!” – Source

The contrast between the Trump Organization’s direct action and the federal response has not gone unnoticed. Former President Trump has been vocal in his criticism of recent hurricane responses, while FEMA and other officials have defended their efforts. This divide underscores the ongoing political tensions surrounding disaster management and relief efforts.

As Florida braces for Hurricane Milton’s impact, the Trump Organization’s gesture serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. With the storm’s landfall imminent, all eyes are on Florida’s west coast and the effectiveness of both private and governmental response efforts.