To the Editor:

Re “Trump Rejects a Storm’s Tally as Gales Blow” (front page, Sept. 14):

In the coming days and weeks, President Trump’s leadership is certain to be tested as his administration is called upon to deal with what are likely to be devastating effects of Hurricane Florence. Hopefully he will fulfill the responsibility expected of a president without the combativeness with which he continues to approach the Puerto Rican catastrophe.

The president’s insistence that the official death toll from Hurricane Maria is a conspiratorial fabrication and his distorted view of the progress of the island’s recovery reflect a characteristic and relentless aversion to truth and criticism.

Hopefully for the good of the country — and especially for residents in the affected states — President Trump will immediately begin to focus his energy on Hurricane Florence and get over his obsession with ratings of past performance.

At all times, and especially during a national disaster, the country expects and deserves leadership without blame or bluster.