"Biden Declares Federal Disaster Emergency for Florida, Reaches Out to DeSantis Amidst Storm and Jacksonville Shooting"

President Biden called Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to approve a federal disaster declaration ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia's expected landfall. The declaration authorizes federal assistance to supplement state, tribal, and local response efforts. Biden also expressed support for the people of Jacksonville following a racially motivated shooting. DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 33 counties and warned of potential fuel contamination at gas stations. The contaminated fuel can damage vehicles and cause malfunctions. DeSantis canceled campaign stops and committed $1 million to bolster security for a nearby historically Black college.