Braley noted in the letter, "while the flood damage to small towns and farms has received less media attention [than the devastation in bigger cities], the degree of the devastation is no less severe."

Braley continued, "while you are in Iowa, I strongly encourage you to stop in Waterloo, Cedar Falls, and in one of the many rural towns affected by flooding in the First District."

A copy of the letter is attached; the text of the letter follows:

--

June 17, 2008

President George W. Bush

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Bush:

As you are aware, the state of Iowa has been hit hard in the past few weeks by devastating flooding that's impacted nearly every county in the state.  (See attached summary of affected communities in Iowa's First District.) 

Not only have several major cities across the state been severely affected by the record floods, but dozens of small, rural communities have suffered major damage.  Additionally, thousands of acres of Iowa farmland have suffered tremendous damage at a critical moment in the growing season. 

I represent thousands of people impacted by flooding in the First Congressional District-in big cities and small towns alike.  And while the flood damage to small towns and farms has received less media attention, the degree of the devastation is no less severe.  

I understand that you are planning on visiting Iowa this Thursday to view areas impacted by the floods.  While you are in Iowa, I strongly encourage you to stop in Waterloo, Cedar Falls and in one of the many rural towns affected by flooding in the First District. 

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to working with you to provide relief to Iowans suffering from this disaster.

Sincerely,

Bruce Braley

Member of Congress