U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell | Mitch McConnell Official website
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell | Mitch McConnell Official website
Kentucky's Congressional Delegation has expressed support for Governor Andy Beshear's request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration due to severe flooding in the state. The delegation, led by Dean of the House Hal Rogers, sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump on Tuesday urging approval.
The joint letter was signed by U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, U.S. Senator Rand Paul, and U.S. Representatives Hal Rogers, Brett Guthrie, James Comer, Andy Barr, Thomas Massie, and Morgan McGarvey. It highlighted the impact of the storm that began on February 14, 2025.
"The storm triggered significant flooding, landslides and mudslides, causing extensive damage to both state and local infrastructure, and tragically claiming at least 14 lives," stated the letter. "While precise damage assessments cannot be completed at this time due to ongoing high floodwaters in affected areas, it is estimated that more than 8,000 homes and businesses have been either destroyed or severely damaged."
The delegation noted that further inclement weather is forecasted for Kentucky in the coming days.
President Trump had previously approved an emergency disaster declaration over the weekend in response to Governor Beshear's initial request. This allowed federal resources to assist with state and local emergency efforts through the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA.
The new request seeks an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration which would provide extended federal assistance to all counties meeting public and individual assistance criteria.
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