WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), along with U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) and Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), urged President Trump to reconsider his denial of a Major Disaster declaration for Southwest Michigan following deadly tornadoes that struck the region on March 6, 2026. In their letter, the lawmakers supported Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s appeal and called for two program activations –– the Individual Assistance program for Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph Counties, as well as the activation of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide. 

“We write in support of Governor Whitmer’s June 23, 2026, appeal to the denial of the Major Disaster declaration request in response to tornadoes in Southwest Michigan on March 6, 2026,” the lawmakers wrote. “Tragically, the tornadoes resulted in the loss of four lives. In addition, the four tornadoes, ranging from EF-0 to EF-3, destroyed critical infrastructure, destroyed homes, displaced residents, and left considerable debris.” 

In their letter, the lawmakers noted that while state and local governments, volunteer groups, and first responders worked quickly to support survivors, Michigan’s response and recovery capabilities have been overburdened by multiple recent disasters. In April, Peters led the lawmakers in urging President Trump to declare a Major Disaster for Southwest Michigan in response to the March tornados. Michigan has also experienced severe storms and flooding that caused damage across 42 counties in April — a disaster request Peters led the entire Michigan Congressional Delegation in urging the Administration to approve. 

“The degree of this disaster, coupled with multiple other recent disasters in Michigan, has surpassed the capabilities of the state and local governments,” continued the lawmakers. “Therefore, we respectfully ask you to reconsider the denial of a major disaster declaration to these communities in Michigan, and to approve this assistance to provide Michigan residents the necessary support to recover from this devastating and fatal disaster.” 

“Without federal assistance, this lack of insurance may force residents to occupy unsafe alternatives,” the lawmakers wrote. “The survivors residing in the area need federal assistance to fully recover.” 

Read the lawmakers’ full letter here.