Speaker Pelosi Issues Statement Marking Two Years Since Hurricane Maria Landfall in Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-California, issued the following statement marking two years since Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands:

"Two years ago, Hurricane Maria tore through the Caribbean and left a trail of heartbreak and devastation across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Today, we remember the thousands of Americans who tragically lost their lives, we honor the unparalleled heroism of our first responders, and we renew our solemn duty to support all the victims who continue to struggle to rebuild their lives.

"In Hurricane Maria's aftermath, we saw Americans' homes destroyed, communities decimated and businesses and schools in ruins. Yet, tragically, as FEMA's own after-action report detailed, the Trump Administration's initial response was wholly inadequate. While Democrats in Congress acted decisively to provide crucial disaster assistance, the Administration mismanaged the long-term recovery effort and failed the people of Puerto.

"Every American deserves to know that their government will be there for them without hesitation or delay. Two years is too long, and that is why House Democrats have fought relentlessly to secure the robust funding families need to be made whole.

"We will take this opportunity to ensure that any recovery includes resilient, sustainable infrastructure, affordable, renewable energy solutions, and reliable access to quality health care for all. In honor of all those we lost, and those who continue to suffer, we will keep fighting to guarantee that every American in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands has the resources and support they need to recover, and ensure that this tragedy never happens again."