On the recordSeptember 12, 2024
Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank our first responders who are working day and night to contain the Airport fire that has spread across more than 23,000 acres in Orange and Riverside counties, which I represent, and injured at least five firefighters and two civilians. Federal, State, and local first responders, community organizations, and individuals stepped up to help their neighbors by providing food and shelter, supporting animals, large and small, and being there for one another. I have been in close contact with our fire, law enforcement, and community leaders on the ground, and I led a bipartisan letter to request Governor Newsom to declare a state of emergency to support our community's response and unlock Federal resources. My team and I will keep doing all we can at the Federal level to keep residents safe and ensure our first responders have the tools they need. Together we will get through this. ____________________
