Minnesota Senators Pledge to Help Tornado Victims

WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Al Franken and Sen. Amy Klobuchar on Friday pledged to help the victims of the June 17 tornadoes in Minnesota.

Franken on Friday said he is in touch with the mayors of Wadena, Minn. and Albert Lea, Minn. – two communities among the hardest hit by tornadoes on Thursday. Franken pledged to help the families of the three people killed in the tornadoes and said the senators said they are working with state and local officials on the rebuilding process.

Sen. Al Franken Statement

“First and foremost, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the three people killed in Thursday’s tornadoes that hit communities across Minnesota. My office will assist those families in any way it can.

“My thoughts are also with the many other residents and communities whose property and homes were uprooted by these storms. In response, I have sent staff to work with local and state officials on the ground in these communities to not only assess the extent of the damage, but also to begin the recovery and rebuilding process.

“As soon as we learn the extent of the damage caused by these tornadoes, I stand ready to work with local, state, and federal officials to bring assistance to those hurt by the tornadoes.”

Sen. Amy Klobuchar Statemen t

“I join all Minnesotans in extending my sympathies and prayers to all who were affected by the deadly storms Thursday night. These storms have resulted in the tragic loss of life, as well as widespread damage to towns and farms across Minnesota. But they will not take away our spirit of community, and I will work with local officials to ensure they have the full assistance they need to recover and return stronger than ever.”