Washington, D.C. - Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today after President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress to present the State of the Union:
"President Obama seems quite content with our nation’s current state of affairs. However, most folks I hear from don’t express the same level of satisfaction. The president gave little attention to our debt and deficit, which still remain too high. I also didn't hear enough about his plans to facilitate a robust middle class where a path to progress exists through strong career ladders, effective career and technical education, and an economy driven by private sector growth, not government programs. Above all, we must strengthen the opportunity for the middle class to succeed.
"I am relieved that the president acknowledged the challenges ‘beyond our shores.’ There is no question that our world is not getting any safer. And the role of Congress in granting authority to the president to engage ISIS is especially critical. However, the president did not mention the impending cuts to our military budget, known as the sequester, which will be absolutely devastating for our nation’s ability to defend itself. As Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, I am committed to staving off these irresponsible, unbalanced cuts and ensuring that our men and women in uniform are trained and equipped to execute their missions successfully and return home safely. We owe that to them.
"As 2015 kicks into gear, my goal in Washington is to make sure that the job gets done. Our system of government was designed as it was for a reason, and the Congress has a duty to pass responsible legislation that will in turn go to the president for his signature. I am hopeful that the president will work with Congress to achieve smart public policy that enables a robust economy full of opportunity for our citizens. We must put the country on a quick path to a balanced budget and make sure that our government is funded in a timely, long-term manner. Finally, we must ensure that our military’s ability to protect our citizens remains strong and unrivaled."
Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he is Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee.
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