President Biden will visit East Palestine on February 16, more than a year after the derailment of a Norfolk Southern train carrying toxic chemicals near the town.
“[T]The President will travel to East Palestine, Ohio, to hold Norfolk South accountable and discuss how his administration will continue to work with state and local officials to help move Norfolk South communities forward.” the White House said in an advisory Saturday.
“The President reiterates his determination to ensure that the people of East Palestine are not defined by this single event, and to ensure that his administration is responsive to the needs of families, businesses, and affected populations. ”, the recommendation continued.
A train that derailed near the town has spilled dangerous chemicals including vinyl chloride into the area, raising environmental and health concerns in the area.
The White House also mentioned the next visit late last month, but did not specify a date at the time. The president's visit to Ohio follows comments he made last March in which he vowed to visit “someday.”
The president did not visit the Buckeye State town while former President Trump, his main rival in the 2024 presidential race, visited East Palestine last February to deliver supplies and provide support to the community. This has led to criticism from Republicans.
Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) recently cited concerns about the situation from constituents in the area.
“People are still concerned about cleanup efforts, making sure they actually clean the area, and are concerned about the long-term health effects,” Vance told The Hill.
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