By Congressman Tom Cole
Unfortunately, natural disasters, accompanied with human hardship and tragedy, were not scarce over this past year in our country. From floods to droughts to wildfires to hurricanes to tornadoes, many communities across the United States suffered this year due to major weather events.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused devastating blows to North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, and the entire Southeast. Yet, many residents in these areas are still waiting for help – and it has been too long.
In fact, just a few weeks ago, I traveled to North Carolina to survey some of the damage. My takeaway leaving this trip was very clear: Congress must act. We need to provide the necessary aid for states in desperate need, as, while it was obvious that there is still a long road ahead for recovery efforts and rebuilding, this aid will mark a vital step forward.
Additionally, as a resident of Moore, Oklahoma, it would be negligent not to harp on the multitude of tornadoes that ripped through my state this past year, resulting in widespread devastation and heartbreaking loss of life.
Every house in Oklahoma impacted by these tornadoes represented a life and uprooted a family. This is why, back in April when an abundance of tornadoes hit my district, I spent time surveying the damage in Sulphur, Marietta, Ardmore, and the rest of our community and ensuring that my constituents got the critical FEMA assistance they needed.
Now, as Members of Congress, we must again step up to the plate and pass disaster recovery aid for those across our country who are still in need.
As disaster relief negotiations are currently underway, I want to make one promise to the American people – I will do everything in my power to ensure that we, as a Congress, are supporting the families, businesses, and local communities that have been crushed. Moreover, as Representatives, our duty is to the People who elected us, and I believe passing a disaster aid bill is central to this duty.
