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Clermont, FL. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, along with Congressman Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and the entire Florida Delegation, sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to immediately approve Governor DeSantis’ request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration following Hurricane Milton.
 
Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key as a Category 3 major hurricane, resulting in ongoing, catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions throughout the state. A Major Disaster Declaration would provide essential federal resources to help Florida respond and recover to the catastrophic damages caused by Hurricane Milton.
 
The full text of the letter is below.
 
We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration for the state of Florida as a result of Hurricane Milton, which made landfall near Siesta Key on October 9th as a powerful Category 3 hurricane.
 
As you are undoubtedly aware, Florida has experienced three hurricanes in as many months – two of which have been major hurricanes – causing significant damage across much of the state. In fact, Hurricane Milton made landfall on parts of Florida’s coastline that had already suffered from unprecedented storm surge from Hurricane Helene and claimed the lives of 25 Floridians just two weeks ago. Furthermore, dozens of tornadoes were reported on the east and west coasts of the state from the outer bands of Hurricane Milton, destroying an estimated 150 homes and leading to numerous fatalities.
 
Given the severity of the storm, as evidenced by the at least 16 reported deaths and still untold damages wrought by Hurricane Milton on peoples’ homes, businesses and livelihoods, we urge your immediate consideration of a Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide essential federal resources to help our state respond and recover to the catastrophic damages caused by this devastating storm. The full support of the federal government is critical in helping save lives and getting our communities and constituents back on their feet.
 
We thank you for your consideration of Governor DeSantis’ request and look forward to your expeditious response to this critically important issue.
 
Sincerely,
 
 
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