Pelosi Statement on Puerto Rico and USVI Assistance

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

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued this statement calling for swift and immediate assistance for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands after Hurricane Maria:

"Americans from every corner of the country send our thoughts and prayers to those in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands who have been devastated by the unprecedented and catastrophic damage caused by Hurricane Maria.

"The Trump Administration must act immediately to make available additional Department of Defense resources for search-and-rescue operations, law enforcement and transportation needs. At the same time, Republicans must join with Democrats in Congress to address the needs of the communities in crisis by swiftly passing a robust relief package that provides assistance not only today, but throughout the long road to recovery.

"Our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands deserve to know that their government will be there for them, without question or hesitation. Democrats will stand by and fight for the American families whose homes, sense of security and lives have been upended by this heartbreaking disaster."

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