W ASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, members of the Congressional Asian-Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) expressed their support for the people of Japan after an 8.9-magnitude earthquake struck the island nation early this morning. The earthquake was the largest to hit Japan in 140 years and unleashed tsunami waves that were over 30-feet high. Additional tsunami warnings were issued for 53 countries, with the current death toll estimated to be at over a thousand people.

Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA), CAPAC Chairwoman

"Our sincerest condolences go out to the Japanese people and all those who have lost loved ones in this devastating tragedy. While we have yet to understand the full extent of the damage in the Pacific, the disturbing images we saw this morning confirm that we must be prepared for the worst. As Members of Congress, we stand in solidarity with the President and reiterate his firm commitment to assisting the people of Japan with their recovery efforts through the difficult days ahead."

Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (Guam), Vice-Chair

"I am saddened to learn of the devastation and loss of life caused by the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. The Japanese are one of our closest allies, and I know the United States stands ready to assist Japan in this time of need.  I offer my condolences to the Japanese people, especially to the families and loved ones of those who have died, as they cope with the aftermath of these events.  I also pray for the safety of all areas that may be affected by the tsunami."

Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa (D-HI), Whip

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families affected by this devastating earthquake and tsunami. The images of destruction are astonishing, and we want the people of Japan to know that Americans are ready to offer our support as they work to recover from this tragic disaster.  I encourage Hawaii's residents to take every precaution and remain clear of tsunami inundation zones until defense officials say it's safe. We are ready to work with federal, state and local officials to respond effectively as the waves reach Hawaii's coastlines." 

Congressman Xavier Becerra (D-CA)

"I join all Americans in offering my thoughts and prayers to the people of Japan as they recover from this devastating earthquake and tsunami. The people and government of the United States stand ready to offer a helping hand to a friend and partner during this challenging time."

Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA)

"The thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with the Japanese people. In the dark days to come, our country stands ready and willing to provide relief and aid in any way we can."

Congressman David Wu (D-OR)

"It is with heartfelt sorrow that I express my condolences to the people of Japan in the wake of today's devastating earthquake and tsunami. I hope and pray that those still in danger are rescued soon. My warmest thoughts are with all those who have relatives and friends affected by the disaster, and the Asian Pacific American community stands ready to assist the people of Japan in rebuilding and recovery. Today's tragedy in Japan is a stark reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness for America's coastal communities and Pacific Island territories. The efficiency of our response and evacuation efforts this morning demonstrates the hard work that federal, state, and local officials have already put toward tsunami preparation, especially in my home state of Oregon. At the same time, we must be ready for a disaster scenario that presents much shorter warning times and a higher ocean surge. As the author of the Natural Hazards Risk Reduction Act of 2010, I am working to enhance vital hazard research and planning programs to ensure national preparedness and effective response."

Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA)

"My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the devastating earthquake on the eastern coast of Japan, and the resulting catastrophic tsunami that struck Japan and is currently moving throughout the Pacific, with the potential to impact Hawai'i, Alaska, and the West Coast of the United States. President Obama has stated that the United States stands ready to help, and I join the President and the American people in pledging our assistance.  As a CAPAC Member on the House Appropriations Committee, I am committed to working with my colleagues to make available the resources necessary to assist the Japanese Government and its people during this time of distress to ensure a speedy recovery."

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

"The images of destruction in Japan are devastating.  My thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected by this natural disaster, and their loved ones around the world. We stand ready to assist in the recovery efforts of this tragedy."

Congressman Al Green (D-TX)

"Early this morning, we heard devastating news that an 8.9 magnitude earthquake struck the coast of Japan. My condolences go out to those persons, especially those who have lost loved ones in the earthquake and tsunami. I commend the Obama Administration for offering support to the Japanese people in their time of need.  Likewise, it is our job to be alert and prepared to assist the American people across the Pacific that may be affected."

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono (D-HI)

"My thoughts are with the people of Japan and my heartfelt condolences to those who lost loved ones in this devastating earthquake and tsunami. Hawaii's familial and cultural ties to Japan are deep, and we mourn with you over the loss of life and the hardships people are facing due to this tragedy. I know that Hawaii and the United States stand ready to help in any way. My thanks to all of Hawaii's first responders for taking appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors."

Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (CNMI)

"The prayers of people of the Northern Mariana Islands go out to our neighbors, the people of Japan, who have suffered terribly from the earthquake and tsunami that struck a few hours ago. And I offer my deepest personal condolences to the families of the victims of this devastating event. At the same time, we remain very concerned about the threat posed to other areas of the Pacific as the tsunami spreads. The Northern Mariana Islands are fortunate to have apparently escaped any injury to life or property as a result of the tsunami. As a Member of Congress, I will continue to monitor the situation closely and am prepared to support whatever relief efforts are required." # # # 

Editor’s Note: The Congressional Asian-Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific-Islander descent and members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian-American and Pacific-Islander (AAPI) community. Currently Chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.