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Congressman Matt Gaetz Applauds Governor DeSantis and President Trump on Disaster Relief for Hurricane Michael

January 24, 2019

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) issued the following statement applauding Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for working with President Donald Trump to secure disaster relief from the federal government for Florida's recovery from Hurricane Michael.

"In less than 48 hours, Hurricane Michael transformed from a Category 1 hurricane to the fourth most powerful hurricane ever to make landfall in the United States. On October 10, 2018, Hurricane Michael's catastrophic 155 mph winds bombarded the Florida Panhandle and ripped through the State of Florida, causing tremendous devastation.

For over four months, Floridians have been in need of federal assistance to help rebuild their homes and communities. Just fourteen days after Governor DeSantis's inauguration, he made a request to President Trump for 45 days of 100% federal cost share recovery, and today, President Trump granted Governor DeSantis's request.

Thank you, Governor DeSantis for putting Floridians first, understanding the need for major disaster relief, and requesting the federal assistance. And thank you, President Trump, for granting that request and sending much-needed relief to the Panhandle," Rep. Gaetz said.