WASHINGTON, D.C. — Almost all of Arizona’s Congressional delegation have crossed party lines to seek a major disaster declaration for the Watch fire’s impact on the San Carlos Apache Tribe.
Ten of Arizona’s representatives and senators signed a letter Thursday, Sept. 19, requesting President Biden make the disaster declaration.
The only one to not sign on was Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-AZ 8.
A declaration of a major disaster would allow for federal funds to be made available for rebuilding of public infrastructure and for assistance to individuals, including funds for emergency and permanent work.
The Watch fire in July burned more than 2,100 acres on the San Carlos Apache Reservation, destroying 34 structures — including 21 homes — and leaving 75 tribal residents homeless.
The fire was man-made, and a suspect has been charged with arson.
