Embargoed Until:
10 p.m. EST, February 24, 2009
10 p.m. EST, February 24, 2009
Contact: (202) 225-4761
Eric Wortman, Communications Director
Eric Wortman, Communications Director
“It is the strong medicine we need to heal this economy”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress to discuss the current state of the national economy. Following that address, Congressman John Salazar offered the following remarks.
“As a life-long farmer, business owner and proud member of the Blue Dog Democratic Caucus, I have pledged fiscal responsibility when it comes to the taxpayers’ money and our national budget. In recent days we’ve been forced to take some major actions to address the fiscal crisis we’ve inherited. I don’t take those decisions lightly, but tough times demand action and the people of Colorado wouldn’t allow me to sit on my hands while jobs are being lost,” said Congressman Salazar.
“But those actions are only steps toward our long-term economic health. Good health requires comprehensive long-term treatment. That’s why I support President Obama’s commitment to the reduction of our deficit and increased accountability for government spending. Those are principles that my fellow Blue Dogs have championed for years and I support them now more than ever. Tonight the President had the courage to tell the people the hard truth about the economy. While that may have been a tough pill to swallow, it is the strong medicine we need to heal this economy and it shows his respect for our ability to take it.
“And we can take it. What makes America’s story so powerful and inspiring to the world is our courage in the face of adversity and the way we use our courage and creativity to overcome hard times. I’m proud to stand side-by-side with President Obama tonight and I’m proud to stand with all Americans and with all Coloradoans as we work together to write the next chapter of America’s success story.”
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