AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump urging the swift deployment of additional federal disaster relief resources to South Texas in response to Governor Greg Abbott’s request following severe flooding in Cameron, Willacy, Starr, and Hidalgo counties:

The Senator wrote: “I understand that the State of Texas, through the Office of the Governor, has formally requested an emergency disaster declaration due to severe weather that has affected several counties in South Texas.”

“The Governor and local officials have determined that the severity and scale of the storm exceed the response capabilities of both state and local governments.”

“I appreciate your attention to this matter and urge you to provide all available resources from the federal government.”

Full text of the letter is available here and below.

April 18, 2025

President Donald J. Trump

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

Washington, D.C. 20500

Mr. President:

I understand that the State of Texas, through the Office of the Governor, has formally requested an emergency disaster declaration due to severe weather that has affected several counties in South Texas. Governor Abbott has already declared a state disaster for Cameron, Willacy, Starr, and Hidalgo counties. Major storm conditions, including heavy rain and flooding, have impacted homes and businesses and continue to pose a threat to the health and safety of Texans.

The Governor and local officials have determined that the severity and scale of the storm exceed the response capabilities of both state and local governments. As a result, additional federal assistance is essential to protect lives, property, and public health. The prolonged displacement caused by damaged homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure adds to the challenges faced by affected Texans.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and urge you to provide all available resources from the federal government. I am ready to work with FEMA and other relevant agencies to ensure a swift evaluation and deployment of the necessary resources for a complete recovery.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this issue.

Sincerely, 

Senator John Cornyn

United States Senator