Congressman Ken Calvert, R-Calif., and Speaker of the House Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., sent a letter to President Joe Biden asking for fast approval of a federal disaster declaration to help with the flooding, debris and wind damage from Tropical Storm Hilary, should a request be made by the governor.
The letter was also signed by California Republican Reps. David Valadao, Michelle Steel, Jay Obernolte, Mike Garcia, Kevin Kiley and Young Kim, according to an Aug. 21 news release.
"Tropical Storm Hilary caused significant damage throughout the 41st Congressional District, especially in Coachella Valley, and other parts of California,” Calvert said in the release. "My colleagues and I in the California Delegation urge President Biden to stand ready to approve California’s request for a major disaster declaration should state and local emergency officials require further federal assistance and coordination.
"It’s absolutely critical that the federal government step up to the plate and avert further catastrophe by providing our residents, businesses and communities with the resources and assistance they need to help our region recover from this historic storm," Calvert added, according to the release.
Tropical Storm Hilary is the first of its kind to hit Southern California in 84 years, according to an article by Associated Press. Residents were faced with flooded roadways, knocked down trees and other dangers caused by mud.
“I commend my good friend Ken Calvert for his leadership in uniting California Members of Congress to request much-needed assistance for all of our communities," McCarthy said in the release. "The people of the Inland Empire have a true champion in Rep. Calvert, and together, we will work to rebuild and recover from this devastating storm.”
Calvert, a Riverside County lifelong resident, has worked as a restaurant and real-estate entrepreneur for almost two decades, according to his biography. Additionally, Calvert is known to give back to the community beyond his role in Congress by serving a number of community volunteer groups, such as the Corona Chamber of Commerce, the Corona Rotary and the Corona-Norco Family YMCA.