Pelosi Statement on New Reported Death Toll in Puerto Rico

Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on findings from a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and other institutions that estimated 4,645 excess deaths as a result of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, far more than the official death toll of 64:

"The new mortality study published today on Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico is shocking and profoundly disturbing. This report reveals a level of devastation that is exponentially worse than previously acknowledged, confirming that Maria ranks among the most devastating disasters in our nation's history.

"As we mourn the loss of so many whose lives were tragically and horrifically cut short by this catastrophe, we must recommit ourselves to providing swift, robust assistance of the families who today are still struggling to heal, rebuild and recover. Eight months after the Trump Administration's stunningly weak response, far too many of our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico lack power, adequate shelter and other basic necessities.

"Congress must ensure that families in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and every community devastated by Maria receive the assistance they need, particularly as the next hurricane seasons approaches. We must also support efforts led by Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez to investigate the alarming discrepancy between this report and the official death toll. Our fellow Americans deserve to know that their government will be there for them throughout the long road to recovery, without question or hesitation."

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