Durbin Delivers Floor Speech On Recent Tornadoes That Killed Two Illinoisans

Durbin: "Disaster relief is no place to play politics. I urge FEMA and the Trump Administration [to put] aside political differences… and think about the families who have been touched by tornadoes and how desperate they are to get a helping hand."

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor offering condolences to the families and friends of Delores Shelton and Sarita Kimble-who were killed by the recent tornadoes in Illinois this weekend. According to the Chicago Tribune, Illinois has experienced more than 147 confirmed tornadoes over the past six months, nearly three times the state average of 54 from 1990 to 2020. In 2024, the previous record year for tornadoes in Illinois, there were only 92 recorded as of June 22, nearly 60 fewer than what we have seen in 2026.

"Over the past weekend alone, as many as 24 separate tornados hit downstate, killing two Illinoisans, Delores Shelton and Sarita Kimble, and injuring many more. My wife and I are praying for the families and friends of Delores and Sarita as well as for those who were injured or starting the daunting task of repairing the damage that has been done," Durbin said.

"While the traditional tornado season in Illinois will be over at the end of June, tornadoes have become increasingly common in the fall and winter months in recent years… With the frequency of tornadoes rising across Illinois, it is more important than ever that we in Washington help families rebuild," Durbin continued. "My office has been in touch with IEMA officials and is working to assist those affected by the tornadoes."

During his remarks, Durbin expressed concern that the Trump Administration will continue to play politics and withhold Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds from blue states, such as Illinois. The Trump Administration also cut thousands of FEMA jobs-by about 20 percent over the past year and a half-resulting in delayed readiness for disasters.

Durbin concluded, "I am concerned that FEMA will not display the same level of urgency after its refusal to assist the thousands of Illinoisans impacted by severe storms last year. Disaster relief is no place to play politics. I urge FEMA and the Trump Administration [to put] aside political differences with our Governor, even me, and think about the families who have been touched by tornadoes and how desperate they are to get a helping hand."

Video of Durbin's remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Audio of Durbin's remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Footage of Durbin's remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

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