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Floor Speech

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Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, before I begin, I want to comment on last night's horrific tragedy. As most now know, last night, around 9 p.m., a passenger flight out of Wichita, KS, coming into Reagan National Airport collided with a Black Hawk helicopter based out of Fort Belvoir.

As recovery efforts continue, authorities confirmed that they do not expect any survivors.

Mr. President, there are few words in instances like this, only our heartfelt prayers for those who have received unbearable news over the past few hours and our gratitude for rescue personnel who spent the night searching for survivors and remain on the river.

It is too early to know why last night's crash occurred, but we are going to find out. Congress and Federal Agencies will be closely examining this tragedy to ensure that America's skies are safe.

My prayers today are with all those suffering, with our first responders, and with our Kansas Senators and everyone affected by this terrible event.

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