The White House has clarified that President Biden didn't actually say 'No comment' in response to a question about the wildfires in Maui. Deputy White House press secretary Olivia Dalton stated that Biden "didn't hear the question" while getting into a vehicle during his family vacation in Rehoboth Beach. She emphasized that Biden had already spoken about the wildfires and was in regular contact with senior staff, FEMA, and state officials to coordinate a response. The clarification comes after criticism and backlash over Biden's initial response.

The Maui wildfires, which occurred on August 8, were the deadliest in the US in over a century, claiming the lives of at least 115 people while leaving 850 missing. Strong winds from Hurricane Dora exacerbated the situation, resulting in extensive damage to the resort town of Lahaina.

In response to the wildfires, the Biden administration has approved over $10 million in federal assistance to more than 3,000 households affected by the disaster. Additionally, more than 1,000 federal personnel, including 430 search and rescue teams, have been on the ground to assist residents.

Critics had called on Biden to issue a public response to the wildfires, but the president declined to comment initially. He later addressed the disaster during a trip to Milwaukee on August 15, where he pledged federal assistance for recovery efforts. Furthermore, Biden visited Maui on August 23 to see the devastation firsthand and offer support to the affected community.

Overall, the White House asserts that Biden did not ignore the Maui wildfires and has been actively involved in coordinating the government's response to the disaster.