Rep. Takano Statement on President Trump’s State of the Union Address
Washington, DC – Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released this statement following President Trump’s State of the Union address:
“In his State of the Union Address, President Trump continued to spread lies about his record on healthcare. He claimed to support people with pre-existing conditions, yet he’s currently supporting a lawsuit that has reached the Supreme Court and that would dismantle the Affordable Care Act and end protections for people with pre-existing conditions. He claimed to support taking action to lower the cost of prescription drugs, but he has not expressed any support for the Lower Drug Costs Now Act, House-passed legislation that would lower the cost of prescription drugs – a bill that is currently buried in Leader Mitch McConnell’s legislative graveyard. His words do not match his actions – it’s hypocritical and its part of the long list of promises he has failed to deliver on for the American people.
“As a former public-school teacher for more than 20 years, I was also disappointed to hear President Trump’s plan to give corporations and the wealthy $5 billion in tax credits to support private school vouchers. We must prioritize improving our public education system, rebuilding our schools, and ensuring that every student has equal access to success. Millions of students at public schools in this country are counting on us to make public education a priority – President Trump does the opposite.
“This may have been President Trump’s third State of the Union address, but this was his first address after being impeached by the House and while facing a trial in the Senate. As I listened to his address, I could not stop thinking about the fact that the President of the United States coerced a foreign power into investigating a political rival, actions that undermined our democracy and threatened our national security. The American people must never forget that President Trump was rightfully held accountable and impeached by the House of Representatives for his abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.
“While President Trump continues to put his interests above the needs of the American people, I remain committed to working with my Democratic colleagues to advance our priorities and continue working for the people.”
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