By Gram Slattery and Alexandra Ulmer FAYETTEVILLE, North Carolina (Reuters) -Donald Trump campaigned in North Carolina on Friday for the fourth time in a month, as the Republican presidential candidate tries to firm up support in a state he was handily leading a few months ago but is now among the most competitive in the race.

Hurricane Helene hit especially hard in heavily Republican areas of Georgia and North Carolina — a fact that could work to Donald Trump’s disadvantage in the two swing states. Research has shown that major disasters can influence both voter turnout and voter preference.

Lawmakers in North Carolina are returning to Raleigh to pass legislation next week securing fiscal aid and lawful allowances in other areas of daily life to the western part of the state devastated by Hurricane Helene flooding.

With what legislative leaders say are sufficient funds, North Carolina lawmakers are set to begin work on a relief package for victims of Helene

North Carolina General Assembly leaders said Friday that they’re prepared to approve initial disaster relief next week to address Hurricane Helene damage. House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate leader Phil Berger said in a joint news release that details are still being worked out about exactly what is needed now to facilitate the state’s response.