WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa made the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s first State of the Union Address.
“President Trump rightly discussed the many accomplishments of the past year, as well as a long to-do list on behalf of the American people in the year ahead.
“Once-in-a-generation tax reform is already improving the lives of millions of hardworking Americans, from increased wages and take-home pay to a hiring and investment spree that is creating new jobs and revitalizing parts of the country that many discounted only a few years ago.
“In the last year, Congress and the Trump Administration have cut unnecessary red tape that was holding back the economy and stalling innovation.
“A record 13 appellate court judges, including Justice Neil Gorsuch, were confirmed in 2017. But there are still many judicial vacancies to fill, and as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, one of my top priorities in the year ahead will be to vet and review judicial nominees who will apply the law as written and not legislate from the bench.
“President Trump laid out a framework for solving some of the most immediate immigration issues facing America. It’s now up to Congress to heed the President’s call, be willing to compromise and engage in serious, bipartisan negotiations that will protect those who were brought here through no fault of their own while respecting the fact that we are a nation of laws. Americans deserve and expect secure borders, protection from dangerous criminal aliens and an immigration system based on ability to contribute to society.
?“I’m glad the President discussed the importance of trade to U.S. workers and industry. In Iowa, one out of every five jobs is trade-dependent. As President Trump’s administration continues to renegotiate NAFTA and other trade pacts, I expect the President to stick to his word to protect American agriculture.
“The President was right to call on Congress to come together to find creative solutions to upgrade infrastructure throughout our country. American agriculture and other industries depend on functioning waterways, bridges and roads to export products to foreign markets. For the United States to stay ahead in the 21st century, the nation needs infrastructure that can compete.
“Access to health care and health care costs remain some of the most significant challenges we face as a country. I’m working across the aisle on a number of initiatives to lower prescription drug prices and increase competition. And as the President said, it’s clear that the opioid epidemic is far from over. Much more can be done to end this scourge that is ruining so many lives.
“A powerful military at a high level of readiness is essential to deter would-be aggressors and preserve the peace. It’s important that we never lose sight of the dangers that we face as a nation. The American men and women in uniform who give so much to their country should always be provided with the resources they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.
“The President celebrated a nation that is optimistic about its future once again. He reached out with a message of unity and tasked Congress with making sure we continue to build on that progress. I look forward to getting back to work for Iowans and for the country.”
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