Denver, Colorado. The Trump administration has denied Colorado’s request for major federal disaster declarations following destructive wildfires and flooding, a decision that state officials say will delay critical recovery funding for affected communities. Gov. Jared Polis requested Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance for the Lee and Elk Fires in Rio Blanco County and for severe flooding that hit western Colorado earlier this year.
President Donald Trump rejected both requests late Saturday, preventing the release of FEMA funds that would support rebuilding efforts, infrastructure repairs, and individual assistance. Polis said the denial harms residents still recovering from natural disasters and accused the administration of playing politics with emergency aid. Colorado plans to formally appeal the decision.
U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, both Democrats, urged the White House to reverse course, arguing that disaster relief should be based on damage assessments rather than partisan considerations. Bennet said communities facing historic wildfires and flooding are in urgent need of federal support. Notably, all 10 members of Colorado’s congressional delegation—including Republicans—signed a letter backing the governor’s request.
Rep. Jeff Hurd, a Republican whose district includes much of western Colorado, also called for reconsideration, stressing that residents are facing serious economic and human consequences. The Lee and Elk Fires, sparked by lightning in August, caused more than $27 million in damage, while October flooding destroyed roads, water systems, and public infrastructure, adding over $13 million in losses.
State officials say without FEMA assistance, recovery timelines could stretch significantly longer for rural and hard-hit areas.
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