Alford, Missouri Delegation Urge President Trump to Grant Gov. Kehoe’s Request for Major Disaster Declaration

Congressman Mark Alford joined the Missouri congressional delegation in sending a letter to President Trump in support of Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe's request for a major federal disaster declaration, which would include Saline County. This comes after the devastating tornadoes and storms that struck Missouri from April 23 through April 28, 2026.

Joining Congressman Alford in the letter to President Trump are Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO), Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08), Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-02), Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Congressman Eric Burlison (MO-07), Congressman Bob Onder (MO-03), and Congressman Wesley Bell (MO-01).

Read the full letter here or below.

"Dear President Trump,

"We write to support Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe's May 22 request for a major federal disaster declaration, pursuant to the Stafford Act, following devastating tornadoes, straight-line winds, severe storms, large hail, and flooding that struck Missouri from April 23 through April 28, 2026. If approved, this declaration would promptly authorize federal aid for affected residents and compensate local governments for their emergency response and recovery expenses in 12 counties throughout Missouri.

"These recent Missouri storms produced at least eight confirmed tornadoes and record-setting, nearly 5-inch hail. More than 140 households and significant public infrastructure have been affected across the dozen counties. Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments by federal, state, and local officials have documented more than $36 million in eligible damages-triple Missouri's threshold to qualify for federal disaster assistance. The damage is well beyond the normal capacity of the affected communities to address without federal assistance.

"We respectfully urge your immediate consideration and approval of Governor Kehoe's disaster declaration request so that Missouri families, local governments, and first responders can access the federal resources they urgently need."

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