In the wake of the devastating wildfires that ravaged Maui, Hawaii, residents are voicing their discontent with President Joe Biden’s planned visit.

The islanders, still reeling from the disaster that claimed at least 110 lives and left many more missing, have made it clear they would prefer if the President stayed away.

Kristi Bowman, a 60-year-old accountant living on Maui, expressed her desire for Biden to visit, but not for the reasons one might expect. She hopes the president’s presence might stir some empathy within him, as she feels the federal government has been lacking in its support.

While local aid has been forthcoming, federal assistance has been noticeably absent, according to Bowman.

Bowman also expressed her disdain for the president’s plan to provide a one-time payment of $700 to those who have lost everything. This gesture, she believes, is woefully inadequate in the face of the immense loss and devastation experienced by the residents of Maui.

Another resident, Jay Awan, a 45-year-old cook and tiki carver, likened the situation on the island to a warzone. He fears the unique character of Lahaina, an old whaling village, will be forever lost as major corporations swoop in to buy up properties from those left destitute by the fires.

Awan’s home was reduced to ashes in the fire and he doubts it will ever be fully rebuilt. His resentment towards Biden is palpable. He believes the president’s visit is merely a publicity stunt, aimed at improving his image rather than providing any real help to the affected residents.

Peter Friedgen, a 66-year-old resident, echoed these sentiments. He stated that people “don’t care if the president comes” as they brace themselves for an influx of visitors.

For Friedgen, like many others, the waiting game continues as they hope for assistance from the government and insurance companies.

The White House announced Biden’s visit following criticism over his initial response to the disaster. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated Biden and first lady Jill Biden will travel to Maui to meet with first responders, survivors, and officials.

However, this announcement has done little to appease the residents of Maui, who feel abandoned by the federal government in their time of need.

Residents of Maui are ultimately sending a clear message to President Biden: they don’t want photo ops, they want action.