Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. today issued the following statement:"Last night's severe weather throughout west Tennessee claimed the lives of at least 19 neighbors, according to the most recent press reports. Dyer, Gibson and Fayette counties appear to have suffered the most casualties and property damage. As surveys of the affected counties happen today and tomorrow, we will get better information about the anguish caused by these strong storms and the federal response required. Based on the initial reaction of our local emergency management officials, the storm damage is overwhelming the state's capacity to respond effectively. A robust and organized federal response will be forthcoming.
"Tomorrow, I will tour some of the affected areas with Governor Bredesen, local elected and emergency management officials. After the tour, I plan to work with the Governor and Congressman John Tanner to secure a quick federal disaster declaration from President Bush and an expedited and organized flow of federal resources to the affected counties.
"Our prayers go out to our neighbors in west Tennessee and the families who lost loved ones due to these tragically strong storms. I am certain that, in addition to government help, the generosity and prayers of the good citizens of this state will reach those in need and pain in Dyer, Gibson and Fayette counties. They will need them during this challenging time."
89 Days
Days of Congressional Inaction on Ethics
Above is the number of days that have passed since Jack Abramoff pleaded guilty to bribing Congressman.
It is also the number of days in which Congress has failed to pass an ethics reform bill that would limit private travel, ski and golf junkets, and would call for a full disclosure of expenses by lobbyists on members of Congress.
It is time for Congress to step up and pass an ethics reform bill that would do all of the above. In addition, it is time to end the pork barrel spending system as we know it and establish an independent ethics commission that would review ethics complaints against members of Congress.
I am proud Congressman Harold Ford Jr. is fighting for that reform!
Read Congressman Ford's call for reform of the House rules here!
