Congressman John Salazar's Statement on President's Inauguration

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Salazar (CO-3) today released the following statement in response to President Bush’s inauguration:

“I like the President very much personally. We are both direct and plain spoken men who need to escape the DC scene at times, reconnect with the land and recharge our batteries on the family ranch.

“In the last few weeks I've had the privilege of visiting with the President at the White House. We talked about the issues facing our nation today. And we talked about the importance of maintaining our values, the ties that bind.

“The President’s message on freedom and liberty is embedded in the history of the Western Frontier. We fiercely protect our way of life. It is my honor to defend the rural values that hold together Colorado's third Congressional district - honesty, hard work, integrity. Defending our land and water. Maintaining our individuality. But above all, coming together to keep our communities healthy and strong.

“On the farm, we were raised to spend our money wisely. You don’t spend money you don’t have. So I am concerned about the growing deficit and our ability to meet our nation’s needs and provide our  citizens with opportunities. Our seniors and grandchildren must have a safe and secure retirement. Our veterans and military retirees, who have sacrificed for our country, must get the benefits they were promised. And it is vital for our rural economies to have access to water, health care, and improved airports and roads. When it comes to spending, we must keep our priorities in mind – the health and well being our communities, and our men and women in uniform, must always come first.

“We must do more than just survive, we must grow as a healthy, safe, and secure community.  The spirit of the pioneer remains strong and I would like to work with the President to develop innovative, but fiscally responsible ways to create opportunities for our rural communities.”