Today, a unified Washington state Congressional delegation sent a letter to President George W. Bush urging him to quickly approve the federal assistance that Governor Chris Gregoire has requested.
The text of the letter follows:
December 6, 2007
President George W. Bush The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President:
We write to urge you to approve as quickly as possible the federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Chris Gregoire on December 6, 2007.
As you know, on December 2, 2007, a very strong wind and rain storm swept through Washington state, causing heavy wind and water damage across much of Western Washington. At least four people have lost their lives, and thousands of people must now try to repair the damage to their homes and businesses. Major interstate traffic routes, including Interstate 5, the primary transportation artery between Seattle and Portland, have been closed due to widespread flooding.
The many seriously-impacted counties and communities in Washington are responding well to this disaster, as is the state of Washington. However, a disaster of this magnitude also requires federal assistance to help in the recovery effort. We therefore urge you to approve a federal disaster declaration as soon as possible.
Thank you in advance for your quick attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
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Patty Murray Maria Cantwell United States Senator United States Senator
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Norm Dicks Jim McDermott Member of Congress Member of Congress
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Doc Hastings Jay Inslee Member of Congress Member of Congress
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Adam Smith Brian Baird Member of Congress Member of Congress
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Rick Larsen Cathy McMorris Rodgers Member of Congress Member of Congress
