Mixed community reaction following President Biden's visit to East Palestine

The President's visit to the Village brought hundreds of protestors and supporters into the center of town.

Some tell 21 News his visit felt like a new beginning for the Village, while others believe he should have announced more during his time in East Palestine.

As President Biden stepped foot in East Palestine for the first time on Friday, hundreds rallied in the streets upon his arrival to the small town that's gained endless national attention.

"He should have been here long before now," said Michael Kripchak of Youngstown. "Waiting a year to come now? What is that proving to somebody? It's proving it's a backburner issue."

Protestors told 21 News the research grants the President announced Friday here in the Village are "just not enough." They say they want more coming from the President.

"He could have done more," said Walter Call of E. Taggart Street. "This town is so divided now. It is what it is. I mean he's letting this mess go on and he couldn't put a stop to it."

Residents said they were disappointed they didn't get the chance to ask questions and speak with the commander-in-chief. He was occupied by some residents includng Misti Allison, an advocate for the safety and future of East Palestine.

"The personal one-on-one time with President Biden was quite short," Allison explained. "But I do feel like it was the beginning of a longer conversation."

Misti calls the academic research grants a great first step but there's more to do. She's calling for healthcare monitoring, not just from a research perspective, but from a primary care perspective.

Biden also took Friday's visit as an opportunity to light a fire under Congress to pass the bipartisan Rail Safety Act.

"I hope that more does become available regarding a healthcare program for residents to get the care that they need," Allison added.

Allison was relieved the President spoke committed to assisting the Village in the future if Norfolk Southern's commitment slacks.

"I would obviously love more details about that and hopefully those will be coming," she concluded.