In a recent C-Span broadcast focused on the looming threat of Hurricane Milton, Vice President Kamala Harris was joined by key figures from federal agencies to discuss the government's preparedness.
Among them were Ken Graham, Director of the National Weather Service, Michael Brennan from the National Hurricane Center, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, and Admiral Linda Fagan of the Coast Guard. However, it wasn’t just the storm that took center stage — a brief moment caught Harris muttering “It’s a live broadcast” to someone beside her, all while Graham was addressing the nation.
Kamala can be heard telling an aide (who is feeding her questions) that it's a "live broadcast" before immediately asking the question.
She's a total fraud. pic.twitter.com/jWQteg20Ep
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 9, 2024
As Graham wrapped up his update, Harris posed a critical question, highlighting an often-overlooked nuance in how hurricane categories are communicated. Referring to Hurricane Milton’s downgrade from a Category 5 to Category 4, she noted the potentially misleading term “downgrade,” which could imply reduced danger.
Harris, addressing Graham, said, "You mentioned 'words matter,' and I know there is a lot of media following this briefing... can you talk a little bit about that?" Her question aimed to ensure that the public remains vigilant, even when storm intensity appears to lessen on paper.
You have been “working around the clock to prepare for Hurricane Milton”?
Yesterday, you spent the day filming The View, Howard Stern, and Colbert.
Today, you called into the hurricane briefing virtually.
At least come up with a talking point that is believable! https://t.co/X1TEBpIDHn
— Kayleigh McEnany (@kayleighmcenany) October 9, 2024
Harris's efforts to emphasize clear communication during the briefing contrasted sharply with criticism that soon followed. On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), she touted her round-the-clock work to coordinate federal, state, and local resources ahead of the storm. Yet, not everyone was convinced.
Fox News commentator Kayleigh McEnany swiftly pointed out the discrepancy between Harris's claims and her public schedule, sarcastically noting her appearances on shows like The View, Howard Stern, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert—none of which seemed aligned with urgent hurricane preparations.
Cheers. pic.twitter.com/slaKf5uJR3
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 9, 2024
As Hurricane Milton neared Florida’s coast on Wednesday, Harris’s participation in the late-night circuit drew further scrutiny. Posing for a casual "cheers" photo with Stephen Colbert while holding a beer, the Vice President faced sharp criticism for the timing of her appearance, leaving many to question whether her actions matched her rhetoric about being laser-focused on the impending crisis.