North Michigan News

Today, Michigan's entire Congressional delegation, led by Representative Jack Bergman and including Senators Slotkin and Peters, sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump. They are urging him to approve Governor Whitmer’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration following severe weather events.

The letter highlights the impact of an unprecedented storm that affected thirteen counties and one federally recognized tribe in Michigan. The storm brought record levels of snow and freezing rain, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. It left many residents without heat or power, prompting emergency responses from the state.

The delegation emphasized that while progress has been made in restoring services and clearing debris, recovery efforts are ongoing. State resources have been depleted, making federal assistance crucial for continued recovery.

Governor Whitmer’s request has received bipartisan support within Congress. On May 19, Senators Peters and Slotkin along with Representative Bergman expressed their full support in a letter to President Trump. They also reached out to Small Business Administrator Loeffler on June 9 regarding an administrative disaster declaration requested by the Governor on June 5.

The affected areas include Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Kalkaska, Mackinac counties as well as the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

John Kran from the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) stated that "the State of Michigan’s May 16 request for a major disaster declaration is a critical step in helping our communities." He expressed gratitude towards Congressman Bergman and others for their bipartisan support on this issue.

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