Rep. Takano Statement on President Obama’s State of the Union Speech

“Tonight, President Obama laid out his vision for his second term and the steps needed to create jobs and grow the middle class, which has served as our economic backbone for so long. By investing in manufacturing, education, infrastructure, and clean energy, we can create an economy that is built to last and breaks the vicious boom/bust cycles we’ve seen time and again.

 

“I also agree with the President that we must do something to address our long-term debt in a balanced way. We cannot ask our nation’s most vulnerable to bear the brunt of deficit reduction through cuts to much needed programs. Promises have been made, and they must be kept.

 

“I also join the President in calling for Congress to fix our immigration system through comprehensive reform. By creating a pathway towards citizenship, instituting the DREAM Act, enhancing border security, and increasing efficiency, we can implement a system that reflects our values as a nation that was built by generations of immigrants.

 

“It is time for Congress to do its job. The games and gimmicks played in the past have harmed our economic recovery and we can no longer afford such dysfunction. We must come together to solve our nation’s challenges. I look forward to working with my Republican friends on these issues and more so the American dream can continue to inspire all.”