Members of Tennessee’s congressional delegation told Middle Tennessee residents Tuesday they will do everything they can to help the state recover after tornadoes claimed at least 25 lives.
Members of the delegation released a joint statement Tuesday.
“We urge everyone today who may be affected by additional storms to take proper precautions and consider safety first,” according to the joint statement.
“We are continuing to monitor the situation and appreciate all our brave first responders. We stand united and ready to work with our governor and state and local officials to ensure that federal assistance is available.”
Tennessee U.S. Republican Senators Lamar Alexander and Marsha Blackburn appeared together in a video to address the residents of Middle Tennessee.
“Our hearts go out to the Tennessee families who were hurt by the severe tornadoes last night in Middle Tennessee and Benton County,” Alexander said.
“Senator Blackburn and I are going to do everything we can to work with Governor Lee, mayors and others to make sure that federal assistance is available.”
Our hearts go out to the Tennessee families who were hurt by the severe tornadoes last night.
Senator @MarshaBlackburn and I are going to do everything we can to work with @GovBillLee, mayors and others to make sure that federal assistance is available. #IBelieveInNashville pic.twitter.com/nGFBwWOpFW
— Sen. Lamar Alexander (@SenAlexander) March 3, 2020
Blackburn, meanwhile, said she and Alexander had talked with mayors in Benton and Putnam County, which were two of Middle Tennessee’s most devastated areas.
“We are concerned about what is happening in those counties. We know the need for resources for cleanup are going to be paramount, and we really are prayerful for all of these families who have been so adversely impacted and for the loss of life,” Blackburn said.
“Just know that we’re going to continue to be in touch with the congressional delegation, with the governor’s office and with the leadership team there to be certain that needs are met.”
On a conference call with reporters Tuesday morning, Blackburn gave her immediate reaction to the tornadoes.
“It’s just devastating and heartbreaking,” Blackburn said. “So many families adversely impacted with loss of life and injury and property damage.”
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Chris Butler is an investigative journalist at The Tennessee Star. Follow Chris on Facebook. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Lamar Alexander and Marsha Blackburn” by Lamar Alexander.
