MAUI, HI – Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) released the following statement after joining Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (HI-2) to witness the wildfire devastation on the island of Maui and ongoing recovery efforts. 

“The people of Maui have suffered unimaginable devastation and heartache. A community defined by natural beauty, a rich history, and a vibrant culture is now marked by tragedy – businesses, homes, schools, and neighborhoods have been destroyed, and families are mourning the loss of loved ones. 

“I applaud the leadership of my colleague and friend Congresswoman Jill Tokuda, whose district is on the frontlines of this crisis, along with Congressman Ed Case, U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz, Governor Josh Green, FEMA, federal agencies, first responders, and local leaders. Everyone I met today is working together to help Maui recover.  

“Under President Biden’s steadfast leadership, the federal government has marshaled a whole-of-government response. He has called for robust funding to recover, rebuild, and revitalize the island community. Just today, the President announced that Hawaii will receive $95 million to repair and harden its electrical grid.

“House Democrats stand ready to act. This a national crisis that demands a national response. It is Congress’s responsibility to provide Hawaii with the federal resources it needs in the face of disaster and for the journey that lies ahead.

“We must also acknowledge that the threat of extreme weather is ever-present across our country. Wildfires, floods, heatwaves: The climate crisis is here and leaving a deadly path of destruction. We must build the sustainable and safe future Americans deserve. 

“To the entire community of Maui, Democrats are ready to fight for you and will continue to put people and our planet over politics.”