Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg addressed Elon Musk’s false claims on X platform regarding federal disaster aid for victims of Hurricane Helene. Musk had claimed that the Federal Aviation Administration was shutting down airspace in the disaster zone, which was proven to be false by Buttigieg and the FAA. Musk also spread conspiracies about FEMA blocking citizens who tried to help during the disaster relief efforts. The FEMA representatives were not immediately available to comment on Musk’s claims. Musk, who has endorsed Republican former President Donald Trump and has become a major donor to the GOP, posted these false claims on Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, which has nearly 8 million followers.
Musk’s SpaceX and Starlink announced that they would send approximately 500 Starlink kits to assist with the Helene recovery efforts and also made the Starlink internet service free for users in the affected areas for 30 days. FEMA had previously announced that SpaceX’s Starlink terminals would be dispatched to provide internet services to remote areas affected by the storm. Musk’s provocations on X have escalated his battles with the U.S. government, as he has previously threatened to sue the FAA, attacked the EPA, and criticized other federal agencies. Despite Musk’s clashes with the government, SpaceX and Tesla, his automaker, heavily rely on federal agencies for billions of dollars in annual revenue as well as loans, tax breaks, and other subsidies and incentives.
Individuals who have suffered loss or damage due to Tropical Storm Helene in designated counties can apply for government assistance through the FEMA app, which is available for download on the Apple Store and Google Play Store, or by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. The FAA confirmed that there were no airspace restrictions in place in North Carolina during the rescue efforts for Hurricane Helene, and pilots were required to coordinate with local authorities for landing permissions at specific airports. Musk’s false claims and conspiracy theories regarding federal disaster aid highlight the importance of accurate information and communication during times of crisis, as misinformation can cause confusion and hinder relief efforts for those in need. Buttigieg’s direct response to Musk’s claims emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in disseminating correct information to the public.
