The following is a transcript of an interview with Rep. Jill Tokuda, Democrat of Hawaii, that aired on “Face the Nation” on August 13, 2023.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Now we turn our attention to Democratic Congresswoman Jill Tokuda. She joins us from Oahu this morning, representing Lahaina as part of her district. Congresswoman, on behalf of everyone here, we offer our sincere condolences for the losses your community has suffered. Yesterday, you inspected the area with FEMA. Can you provide an update on the firefighting efforts and the status of the recovery process?
REP. TOKUDA: Thank you, Margaret. Walking through the streets of Lahaina yesterday was a heart-wrenching experience. Witnessing the devastation firsthand was shocking and surreal. We often use words like these to describe such situations, but actually seeing the streets with smoldering fires in the distance and melted cars turned into hardened puddles was a different experience altogether. Buildings and cars marked with X’s, indicating they have been searched for survivors or casualties, added to the gravity of the situation. Unfortunately, at this point, we cannot provide a definite timeframe for when people will be allowed back into the area. However, I want to emphasize that I share in the anger and anxiety of the residents who yearn to return home. Many of our friends and family members have chosen to stay despite the danger, and it is our duty to ensure that we account for every individual’s safety. Our prayers are with those who remain unaccounted for, hoping that they have found shelter and are safe. But we are painfully aware that too many are still trapped in damaged buildings. The presence of cadaver dogs brings a stark reality to the rescue efforts. Yesterday, we had the opportunity to meet these brave dogs and their handlers, witnessing their dedication to locating and rescuing individuals. The gridding system that they employ is crucial in covering the affected area effectively. Our frontline responders are working tirelessly day and night to bring our loved ones back to us.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Congresswoman, it has been reported that Maui had a robust hazard warning system, including around 80 sirens across the area. How did this system fail to provide adequate warning for residents to evacuate?
REP. TOKUDA: The warning sirens in Hawaii are well-known to all residents. Sounding off once a month at noon, these sirens serve as our first line of defense. Unfortunately, in this situation, tragically, the sirens likely did not go off. Additionally, the warning signals sent through cell phones were ineffective due to the lack of cell coverage and electricity in certain areas. Even if people had access to phones, televisions, or radios, they would not have received timely information about the crisis due to the rapid spread of the fire. Survivors have shown videos capturing the speed at which the flames consumed everything in their path. It is understandable that one’s first instinct would be to interpret the warnings as a tsunami, leading people to flee towards land, which, in this case, was engulfed in fire.
MARGARET BRENNAN: FEMA estimates the cost of reconstruction to be nearly $6 billion. However, they also face a $4 billion shortfall by the end of September. How do you advocate for Hawaii to receive the necessary support amidst the current landscape of natural disasters and competing priorities?
REP. TOKUDA: This disaster and tragedy were unexpected for all of us. As you’ve heard from the testimonies of my constituents, this is not solely a Hawaii issue. It is a national crisis affecting individuals from all over the country. Loss of life will not be limited to Hawaii residents but will extend to those who were present in the area from various parts of the United States. We must recognize that this is a national disaster and requires a national response. Furthermore, we must not forget that rural America, like Hawaii, faces unique challenges in receiving prompt support and first responders in these types of climate change-induced situations. It is imperative that FEMA has the necessary tools and resources to provide aid to Hawaii and respond effectively to disasters across the country. The funds requested by President Biden to replenish the disaster relief fund are crucial in addressing these pressing needs. This conversation will undoubtedly continue in Washington, and I appreciate your well wishes.
REP. TOKUDA: Thank you.
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