U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman has invited President Donald Trump to visit the region as residents deal with the aftermath of a devastating ice storm.
Bergman, whose district covers all of northern Michigan, penned a letter to Trump on Wednesday emphasizing the widespread destruction, which left thousands without power and damaged critical infrastructure throughout the region in recent days.
“Northern Michiganders and Yoopers are among the strongest and most resilient in the country,” Bergman wrote. “But a visit from you would be a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this recovery.”
The letter does not mention any requests for federal aid.
Earlier this year, state emergency management officials said the Trump administration froze around $56 million dollars in federal disaster reimbursements in Michigan.
Because of this, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hasn’t made payments for multiple recovery projects on previous disasters.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for 12 northern Michigan counties this week. On Tuesday, she deployed the Michigan National Guard to assist with removing tree branches from roads and power lines.
“Our Northern Michigan and Upper Peninsula counties have experienced unprecedented damage over the weekend from a historic ice storm,” Bergman stated in a press release. “I’m grateful Governor Whitmer has declared this important state of emergency, making vital resources available for our First District counties. We cannot express how thankful we are for the tireless work of our linemen, first responders, and everyone on the ground doing everything they can to help our communities.”
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