Congresswoman seeks Malden help

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers has written a letter to President Joe Biden hoping to open federal assistance coffers for Malden and Pine City.

Both communities suffered devastating losses in the Babb Fire and are still rebuilding.

The Fifth District congresswoman asked him to support Gov. Jay Inslee's disaster declaration request for Eastern Washington counties impacted by wildfires last year. 

McMorris Rodgers' district covers Eastern Washington counties along the Idaho border, including Whitman.

"Congratulations on your inauguration as 46th president of the United States," she wrote. "While we may have policy differences along the way, I am committed to finding common ground when possible so we can get results for people in my district and all Americans.

"I am writing to bring your immediate attention to the devastation experienced by communities in Eastern Washington during the 2020 wildfire season and to seek your help in approving a major disaster declaration that will provide relief for the residents of Malden and Pine City in Whitman County, Washington."

She wrote of her visits to the towns.

"The devastation took my breath away," she said. " The city hall, post office and fire station were gone. Homes and surrounding farmlands were destroyed.

"My team and I have sought relief for these communities, but individuals, families and businesses are still waiting ... Your approval of this disaster declaration would go a long way towards helping impacted families as they continue to rebuild their lives."