Sen. Ben Ray Luján Speaks with Local Leaders, Surveys Fire Damage. Courtesy photo

Sen. Ben Ray Luján touring damage caused by the McBride Fire in Lincoln County. Courtesy photo

U.S. SENTATE News:

RUIDOSO — Monday, U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) visited Ruidoso in Lincoln County to review damage caused by the McBride Fire and the steps taken in the aftermath to address flooding concerns.

Following the tour, Luján met with local officials about related responses, including Ruidoso’s efforts to secure long-term housing for local workers displaced by the loss of residences.

Following their meeting, Luján toured of a portion of the Holloman Air Force Base, hosted by the 49th Wing leadership, to become acquainted with several important projects and to meet Air Force leaders.

“Today’s tour and meetings with the communities impacted by the McBride Fire is a clear example why it was critical to pass the Inflation Reduction Act and build on the several actions I’ve taken to make New Mexicans whole once again,” Luján said. “Ruining over 200 homes and taking two innocent lives, the McBride Fire has devastated these families—just as they were recovering from COVID-19. Thankfully, the Inflation Reduction Act will help communities invest in wildfire mitigation, and I also worked to secure a commitment from USDA to waive the cost share requirements for debris removal and other watershed protection measures for impacted communities.”

Luján continued, “It was also a special honor to tour the Holloman Air Force Base and learn how they’re preparing airmen in New Mexico. I look forward to continuing to support their mission work through critical appropriations during this year’s Defense budget negotiations.”