Rep. Cisneros Gives Floor Speech on LA Wildfires

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. spoke on the House floor regarding the Los Angeles wildfires. He thanked first responders and urged House leadership to immediately bring a supplemental spending bill to aid California’s efforts to combat this fire. He also condemned Speaker Johnson statements indicating any wildfire aid could be conditional or tied to a separate political deal. 

Click here to view the video:

Text of Rep. Cisneros’ floor speech can be found below:

“Mr. Speaker, my heart goes out to all the Angelenos who have been affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles County. It has been heartbreaking to learn of those who lost their lives and to witness the devastation of entire neighborhoods. 

“I also want to extend my gratitude to the firefighters, first responders, and local officials who have been working tirelessly around the clock to combat the wildfires. Their heroism and bravery have been inspiring, and I know that because of their efforts, these wildfires will soon be contained. There's no doubt that their swift action saved lives.

“I joined Senators Padilla, Schiff, and 46 of my Democratic and Republican colleagues urging President Biden to grant Governor Gavin Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration. Thankfully, the President approved the Governor’s request, and California has secured multiple Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) from FEMA to ensure vital resources are available for our local, state, and tribal agencies.

“However, those grants are not enough.

“I am also appalled by recent calls from the other side to condition aid on a debt limit deal. Now is not the time to politicize this crisis.

“I strongly urge House leadership to immediately bring a supplemental spending bill to aid California’s efforts to combat this fire and make Angelenos whole again.”

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