President George W. Bush focused on many issues facing our Nation, both domestically and internationally, during the State of the Union address on Tuesday evening. Congressman Richard W. Pombo (CA-11) offered the following statement in response to the President’s agenda.

Americans watched as the President delivered his plans for the Nation and put forth several new initiatives. It’s my hope that Congress will readily respond to his proposals with a thorough review and a steady agenda focused on achieving greater security for all Americans.

While continuing our mission to spread democracy in the face of terrorism, we must not discount the importance of taking the necessary steps to secure our homeland and keep Americans safe.

Energy is the lifeblood of our Nation and our economy. We must work to lower energy prices for American families and cure our addiction to foreign energy. In addition, a successful plan must look to the technologies of the future while taking into account the energy needs of today.

Congress must promote the use of American alternative energy sources such as renewable fuels, cellulosic biomass and turning waste products into energy. Further, we must pass legislation that makes it easier to tap alternative and renewable energy sources, while increasing efficiencies and conservation.

But, it would be irresponsible to pretend we won’t need traditional fossil fuels in the near future as we transition to alternative sources. We must access the resources available in ANWR and throughout the United States.

As the President noted, our healthcare system is diseased and requires immediate attention. Further we must address issues with our Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid systems to ensure the promises that have been made to our citizens are kept.

Unless we confront critical issues like energy independence and our ailing health care system, there’s no doubt our solid economy will be affected. We must not ignore the tough decisions and leave them to burden future generations. Instead, we must utilize our American resources and technologies to ensure our families, businesses and communities have a bright future.

Congressman Pombo visited the Delta Blood Bank and presented Executive Director Benjamin J. Spindler, M.D. with a copy of House Resolution 220 thanking America's Blood Centers.
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