In a joint statement delivered by New Jersey Republican Governmor Chris Christie and Democratic New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, the leaders stated their appreciation of the passage of a $50.5 billion Hurricane Sandy recovery aid package  in the House of Representatives.

“The tradition of Congress of being there and providing support for Americans in times of crisis, no matter where they live across this great country, lives on in today’s vote in the House of Representatives.”

The legislation allocating the funds will now have to go to the Democratic- controlled Senate, where it is sure to pass through quickly.

Republicans in the House did not move to pass the aid package as quickly as they could, debating on the effects of such a large allotment of funds on US debt reduction, spending and taxes.