"My instructions to the federal agencies has been: do not figure out why we can't do something, I want you to figure out how we do something. I want you to cut through red tape, I want you to cut through bureaucracy. There's no excuse for inaction at this point."

The president suspended his election campaign for part of this week so that he could deal with Sandy. He has been urging federal agencies to do everything possible to help the storm victims.

This week, Mr. Obama went to New Jersey to witness the damage. New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a supporter of candidate Mitt Romney, praised Mr. Obama for his efforts.

On Tuesday, Mr. Romney changed one of his campaign events to raise money for victims of Sandy. He also suspended campaign events and has urged Americans to help with the recovery effort.

"I appreciate your generosity, it is part of the American spirit, the American way to give to people who are in need."

The presidential race continues to be close. It is not clear if or how Sandy will influence the vote.