Today, Congressman John W. Olver (D-1st District) released the following in response to the President’s State of the Union address:
“I am encouraged that President Obama laid out an agenda to rebuild the American economy in his State of the Union address this evening. Americans are more confident about the economy than at any point since last May, but the middle class and unemployed Americans need continued support during this recovery. I believe that President Obama has the vision to return economic security to the middle class and support all Americans while building a long-term, sustainable economy.”
Economic Security of Middle Class:
“Our economy has experienced steady growth over the past year. The unemployment rate is at its lowest point since President Obama took office in January 2009. Over the last 22 months, the economy has added a total of 3.2 million private sector jobs. The economy is heading in the right direction, but we cannot stop supporting unemployed and underemployed workers. We must also do more to ensure that the American middle class has access to job training and well-paying, secure jobs.”
Fairness in the Tax Code:
“At a point where the top one percent of Americans took home 42 percent of financial wealth, we must return economic equality to its historical levels and, by doing so, provide all Americans with the ability to succeed. I strongly support a system where the highest earners do not pay a lower effective tax rate than the middle class.”
Investing in Infrastructure:
“I am a strong proponent for critical infrastructure spending, especially in the current economic climate. A major investment in infrastructure would put Americans to work now and improve our long-term economic outlook. Projects in transportation will contribute to President Obama’s vision in rebuilding a sustainable American economy capable of handling 21st-century problems.”
American Manufacturing:
“President Obama has laid groundwork for a resurgence of American manufacturing. For the first time since the 1990s, American manufacturing is creating jobs. Economists estimate we need over 150,000 new jobs each month to sustain a steady employment base. Investments which support hiring skilled workers will contribute to our recovery and provide much-needed middle class jobs.”
American Energy Initiatives:
“Global climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing our generation. Clean and renewable energy projects are both good for our economy and promising for the future of our environment. Investment in clean energy now will result in stable employment opportunities and long-term economic growth.”
Foreign Conflicts:
“I am pleased that all combat troops have been removed from Iraq. While this planned development is long overdue, it represents a renewed focus on domestic concerns and a vision for foreign conflicts that depends on protecting our allies and partners without protracted and costly commitments.”
