On the recordJanuary 16, 2019
Madam Speaker, today, I rise on behalf of the communities affected by the devastating wildfires in northern California. These past few months have been a trying time for our community. Entire towns were destroyed, crops were burned, and thousands of families were left with nowhere to call home. My relatives' home was completely destroyed in the Paradise fire. In my district, we had to wear masks because of the terrible air quality. Farmers throughout our region took a huge hit with missing livestock and crops ruined by thick ash. Today, I am proud to lead a bipartisan amendment bringing $1.9 billion in relief to our farmers for crop and livestock losses during the fire. This is incredibly important to my district, and it is just the start in helping our communities rebuild. It is also a perfect example of how we can put party labels aside, actually work together, and do what we were sent here to do: help people. I know a lot of people in my district are frustrated we can't even work together to keep our government open. I am frustrated, too. Let this be an example and a sign that, out of tragic loss, we can remember what actually unites us. ____________________





