Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has mobilized state troops to ensure the state’s ports remain operational in the face of ongoing dock worker strikes. This action comes as southern states, including Florida, struggle to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm that has claimed over 200 lives and left entire communities in need of essential supplies.

During a press conference on Thursday, DeSantis announced that both the Florida National Guard and Florida State Guard would be deployed to maintain order at critical ports affected by the strike. He emphasized that these efforts are crucial to keeping the supply chain moving, particularly as storm victims in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas await much-needed resources to rebuild.

“These strikes would impact the economy under normal circumstances, but in the aftermath of a deadly hurricane, it’s simply unacceptable,” DeSantis said. He urged the Biden-Harris administration to act swiftly to prevent further disruption and ensure that the people affected by the storm have access to the goods and materials they desperately need.

DeSantis also criticized the administration’s handling of the crisis, stating, “The federal government must do everything in its power to get these goods where they need to go. People are suffering, and they shouldn’t have to wait for basic necessities because of delays at the ports.”

In addition to sending troops, the governor announced that the Florida Department of Transportation would temporarily suspend tolls, fees, and size restrictions for commercial vehicles transporting goods. He also stated that the Florida Highway Patrol would manage traffic flow at the state’s ports to expedite deliveries and provide escorts for trucks when necessary.

DeSantis framed the state’s actions as decisive, contrasting them with what he sees as a lackluster response from the federal government. “Florida is acting swiftly to make sure our economy stays functional and that those impacted by Hurricane Helene get what they need to start rebuilding their lives,” he said.