Federal, state and local officials decry Helene conspiracy theories

The head of FEMA, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, Republican Haywood County Sheriff Bill Wilke and Republican Haywood County Commission Chair Kevin Ensley flatly denied rumors and conspiracy theories circulating on social media alleging a lack of government response to the catastrophe left in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene.

The comments came during a Friday afternoon press conference at the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office. Cooper began by praising emergency response professionals who are on the ground and in the water rescuing people, but he also thanked volunteers aiding in the recovery.

Smokey Mountain News Logo
SUPPORT THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN NEWS AND
INDEPENDENT, AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM
Go to top
Payment Information

/

At our inception 20 years ago, we chose to be different. Unlike other news organizations, we made the decision to provide in-depth, regional reporting free to anyone who wanted access to it. We don’t plan to change that model. Support from our readers will help us maintain and strengthen the editorial independence that is crucial to our mission to help make Western North Carolina a better place to call home. If you are able, please support The Smoky Mountain News.

The Smoky Mountain News is a wholly private corporation. Reader contributions support the journalistic mission of SMN to remain independent. Your support of SMN does not constitute a charitable donation. If you have a question about contributing to SMN, please contact us.