Chuck Fleischmann

I am continuing to monitor the recovery efforts in Copperhill and am working with our federal and state partners to ensure that the people of this area receive all available assistance during this cleanup and restoration. FEMA has been on site since November 9th, and I have personally been in close contact with the Regional Director, TEMA officials, and the county and city mayors about conditions on the ground and the needs of those affected. My team and I will continue to do all we can at the federal level to help secure the resources our communities need. Tennessee Fire Mutual Aid swift-water teams conducted more than 100 rescues across Tennessee and Georgia. I am grateful for their service and for our first responders, emergency personnel, volunteers, and everyone helping their neighbors during this difficult time. The evacuation order for Copperhill has been lifted, and cleanup and debris removal efforts continue in affected areas. Residents should follow updates from local officials and enter damaged or debris-filled areas only when it is safe. Before beginning cleanup, take photographs and document damage and debris for insurance and recovery purposes. This recovery will take days, weeks, and months, and I will continue to do all I can to ensure federal resources reach this community in need and encourage others to seek opportunities to provide needed donations to help its residents.

It was a pleasure to welcome our incoming members of Congress to the Capitol and share a few lessons I’ve learned along the way. I still remember how much there was to take in when I first arrived, and I was glad to pass along some experience and advice as they prepare to serve. To our newest colleagues: congratulations, and welcome! Serving the people back home is an incredible honor. I look forward to getting to know you and working together for our great nation.

Happy Veterans Day to the brave men and women who have served our great nation! We are blessed to live in freedom because of your service and sacrifice. I am proud to stand with our veterans in East Tennessee and across America.

It was great to welcome Chairman Nieh! We had a great conversation about the future of nuclear energy and the opportunities ahead to create American jobs, deliver reliable power, and strengthen our energy security.

Congratulations to my friend @Jim_Jordan on being elected as our next House Minority Leader. Jim's steadfast leadership and commitment to conservative values are evident. I look forward to getting back to work and fighting for the American people!

The NRC is delivering on its promise of safe, efficient, and timely work to enable nuclear innovation. The construction permit for @xenergynuclear's Long Mott Generating Station in Texas, powered by Oak Ridge, marks a historic step forward: America’s first high-temperature gas-cooled reactor permit in nearly 60 years, and a major milestone for advanced nuclear energy. This is how we keep America at the forefront of clean, reliable, and secure energy!

Yesterday, I was honored to join UT and Oak Ridge partners to speak with leaders driving innovation in our region. At the legislative tailgate, I had the privilege of connecting with state and federal officials working to support @UTKnoxville. Go Vols!

I enjoyed a great morning connecting with friends and neighbors at the Soddy Daisy breakfast. Proud to be a part of such a wonderful community.

I’m committed to working with local and federal agencies to secure the resources that Polk County residents need. Stay safe and look out for your neighbors.

I have been speaking with emergency management personnel and local leaders on the ground in Copperhill all morning. They ask that people without a business or residence in the area please avoid Copperhill as crews continue to clear debris in the area and begin assessing the safety of the infrastructure.

Last night, the TN Emergency Management Plan was activated, and Polk County is now in a state of emergency. Please join me in praying for everyone's safety as this unfolds. I will continue to work at the federal level to secure relief for those affected by this disaster.

I have been in close contact all day with leaders from Polk County and from Copperhill, as well as working with the team at TEMA to get relief to the people affected by this horrible disaster. I will continue to do all I can to make sure that federal assistance is available in the days and weeks ahead to help the recovery efforts begin as soon as the waters subside.

My team and I are closely monitoring the flash flooding in Polk County. We are also in contact with local officials and TEMA, as the emergency response is ongoing. For up to date information, please visit: embeds.regroupcloud.com/orgs… I am praying for everyone’s safety and well-being.