On January 18, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) led a group of Members of Congress to survey the devastation of the Pacific Palisades fire and concluded with a press conference to underscore the urgency of mobilizing federal disaster relief. The event served as part of Sherman’s broader efforts to rally support for federal disaster relief in the wake of the worst wildfires in Los Angeles history.
“Directly witnessing the sheer destruction of the Palisades Fire makes it painfully clear: the need for federal disaster relief is undeniable,” he said. “Our neighbors have lost homes, livelihoods, and a sense of security. This is not the time to set dangerous precedents by politicizing disaster relief. This is the time for Congress to come together and do what it has always done in such moments of tragedy – put politics aside and deliver relief. Every American deserves the assurance that their government will be there in times of need—no strings attached.” In the subsequent press conference, Sherman highlighted his ongoing efforts to secure federal funding for wildfire prevention, emergency preparedness, and community resilience.
As part of the damage assessment, the Members of Congress observed the destruction to homes, infrastructure, and the surrounding environment, as well as the ongoing recovery efforts. Sherman emphasized the importance of a unified federal response to address the needs of impacted communities effectively and swiftly.
