Washington, D.C. – Dean of the United States House of Representatives, John D. Dingell (D-MI15) released a statement on President Barack Obama’s State of the Union speech this evening:
“Tonight, the President outlined for the American people a clear path forward for our nation. He addressed the difficult challenges America faces. Our nation has gone through tough times, but under President Obama’s leadership, America is gaining strength and our economy is improving.
“With wise and targeted federal investments combined with precise and rational spending cuts, we not only can continue to enhance our economic recovery and competitiveness, but also begin to considerably pay down our unsustainable federal debt. The bottom line is that we have to work together to address the budget deficit. I personally think a budget freeze would be an inefficient and arbitrary way to deal with the problem; it would not take into consideration specific problems and issues that we face today. Nonetheless, I stand ready to work with my colleagues and the President to find responsible and effective ways to trim the budget.
“President Obama pointed out how our accomplishments—the creation of jobs, health care reform, improving our environment, strengthening our education system, reining in Wall Street, and creating more opportunity here at home—all move America forward. To continue on this path, we must ensure we are able to compete in this global economy.
“President Obama called on us to find common ground for the future of this great Nation— we need to manufacture in America, educate in America, and invest in America. This country has a history of rising to immense challenges and far exceeding expectations set for us. We are a great country and not only can we continue to compete globally, but we simply must. This means we have to invest in the future and create an atmosphere where innovation and ingenuity flourish.
“He reminded us that even with the many challenges we face at home, we must not overlook the fact that our country is engaged in two wars. It is incumbent upon us all to be mindful and understand these conflicts, have compassion for the brave men and women who serve in our armed forces, their families and loved ones and appreciate how they impact our country.
“Our nation is strong and resilient. Americans will continue to confront questions, challenges, and dangers, but if we rally together, we can put our people back to work, protect our children’s future and retain our standing in the global marketplace.
“I sincerely hope that my Republican colleagues will heed President Obama’s call tonight to work together for good policy that benefits our great nation without regard to what is best for our respective political parties.”
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