WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s declaration this afternoon of an expedited major disaster in Connecticut for Fairfield County in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

“I applaud President Obama and Governor Malloy for their work to expedite the disaster declaration process. My office stands ready to assist constituents with the recovery process, including applying to FEMA for the individual and business assistance this declaration provides. I continue working with town and city officials to assess damages and reach out to residents affected by the storm. My sympathy goes out to those who are suffering from the hurricane.”