Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin said Sunday that she's pleased by the response of the federal government following the tornado that hit Moore, Okla., last week, but said she has concerns that the bureaucratic process may slow down the long term recovery.
"What I need is the ability to get through red tape," she said while appearing on CNN's 'State of the Union.'
She expressed great appreciation for the response and support from FEMA Director Craig Fugate and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano,
Politico reported.
"So far, we have had great response," she said.
However, because of the scope and damage caused by the EF-5 tornado that killed 24 and injured hundreds more, she has some concerns.
"This is a massive debris field. It's not just a couple blocks," Fallin added.
Rep. Michael Grimm of New York, on the same talk show, said that even though progress has been made in the recovery following Hurricane Sandy, that there is still a lot more to be done.
"It's gonna take a long time," he said about the recovery in Oklahoma. "It's without a doubt going to be the governor's most difficult challenge."
Mayor Melodee Colbert-Kean of Joplin, Mo., where a similar tornado hit in 2011, added that the process can be frustrating.
"There is no quick remedy for a disaster of these proportions. It does take time," she said. "You have to have a plan."