Congressman Fattah Responds to State of the Union

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA), a Senior Member on the House Appropriations Committee issued the following statement on tonight's State of the Union address:

"Seven years ago, I joined with my colleagues in Congress as President Obama delivered his first State of the Union address. In it, he articulated a vision that has shaped his Presidency, ushered in a new era of economic progress, and defined our nation for generations to come.

"Tonight he conveyed this same sense of optimism for America's future, anchored by the success of several historic initiatives including universal health care, educational equity, marriage equality, and groundbreaking new advancements on climate change. Since taking office, he has moved our country forward, adding 14.1 million jobs, providing healthcare for nearly 18 million Americans, and reducing our deficit by a trillion dollars.

"Because of President Obama's leadership and the efforts of many in Congress—plus partners and collaborators across the nation—we are more prosperous, healthy, and more equal a nation than when he assumed office in 2009. I have been a proud supporter of the President since 2007, and was privileged to have a hand in the policies and programs centered on building a strong middle class that distinguished the last seven years.

"Most importantly, we have worked together to turnaround our economy. Our unemployment rate has dropped to 5%, down from 7.8% when the President took office. Along with my colleagues in Congress and the help of the President, we signed into law the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act, which reauthorized the Workforce Investment Act and updated it to ensure that our modern workforce is equipped to meet the growing demands of the 21^st century. I have also vigorously championed the Administration's efforts around education and healthcare. Like President Obama, I believe that education is the great equalizer of our society, and have worked with him to ensure that every child has access to a superior education. 

"But tonight's speech was not rooted in the past, it was forward-thinking, outlining the vision our President has had since his first day in office; a vision for one America that celebrates diversity, tolerance, and inclusiveness. Tonight President Obama delivered a message that should inspire hope and confidence in every American, in each city and town across our great nation.

"I echo the President's assertion that the United States is a country of possibilities—and pledge to continue my work ensuring that every individual in this nation has the resources necessary to reach their fullest potential. Our nation is stronger when we work together, and I am confident that President Obama will move full speed ahead in the next 11 months—and beyond—to infuse the last year of his term with the same sense of determination and commitment to the American people that has defined his Presidency. I am excited to work alongside him as we sustain our efforts to advance our nation and retain the United States' leadership in the world."

SOURCE Office of Congressman Chaka Fattah

Related Links

http://www.fattah.house.gov