On Wednesday's "CNN News Central," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas responded to criticism from 2024 Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) of the response to Hurricane Helene that included criticism of President Joe Biden for going to his home in Delaware, 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris doing campaign events, and Mayorkas for going to an awards ceremony in Los Angeles by stating that "we don't listen to or pay attention to such unproductive, and, quite frankly, counterproductive words." And "The state and local leaders in the impacted states have praised the federal response." He also defended attending the awards ceremony by saying, "I was recognizing the outstanding work of the personnel of the Department of Homeland Security, and surely, others should support and recognize that tremendous work as well."