SENS. GIRDLER AND STORM REACT TO FEDERAL AID APPROVAL FOLLOWING DEADLY MAY TORNADO
FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 23, 2025) — The following is a joint statement from Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, and Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London, regarding President Donald J. Trump’s announcement of $27.1 million in federal aid approved for Kentucky after the deadly May tornadoes
“We want to thank President Donald J. Trump for personally stepping in to give final approval for federal disaster aid that will directly support families and communities in Laurel County, Pulaski County, and other hard-hit areas. This news is a blessing and a critical step forward as we continue recovery efforts from the devastating tornado earlier this year.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to all state and local leaders who worked tirelessly alongside FEMA to assess damage, coordinate response efforts, and advocate for this assistance. Their collaboration helped ensure this process moved fast and effectively.
“Our communities are strong, and with this support, we will recover and rebuild.”
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On May 16, a deadly EF-4 tornado carved a nearly 60-mile path through Russell, Pulaski, and Laurel Counties. The storm first impacted rural Russell County, killing one woman, and then intensified across rural Pulaski County, taking the life of a firefighter major, before reaching Laurel County, where it devastated the Sunshine Hills subdivision in London and resulted in 17 additional fatalities—totaling 19 initially. Since then, a 20th storm-related death, a man from McCracken County, was confirmed. The path was reportedly nearly a mile wide with winds up to 170 mph.
Sen. Rick Girdler represents Kentucky’s 15th Senate District, including Pulaski and Russell Counties.
Sen. Brandon Storm represents Kentucky’s 21st Senate District, including Laurel County.