Tonight the President clearly demonstrated his understanding of the concerns of the American people and his commitment to doing the people's business. President Clinton focused on the challenges facing America, and spoke to the aspirations and responsibilities we share as citizens. Justifiably proud of a six-year record of peace, prosperity, low unemployment, and low inflation, the President challenged all Americans to work together and build on these achievements, not rest on past success. The initiatives proposed in the President's ambitious agenda build on accomplishments in economic policy, education and training, the environment, and health care that have made America a stronger and more prosperous nation; however, as we prepare for the 21st Century much remains to be done.

I join the President's call to save Social Security now and to make our families, schools and communities stronger and safer. Strengthening Social Security for future generations should be the first order of legislative business for Congress. Projected budget surpluses for the next 15 years afford us the opportunity to strengthen Social Security, Medicare, and promote saving for retirement. I applaud the new initiative to assist Americans with long-term care needs. Long-term care is an important health policy issue for older Americans and families who face the challenge of a long-term disability.

We must also continue to make wise investments in our children. I support the President's proposals that build on our investment in education. Work remains to be done toward placing 100,000 new, qualified teachers in our schools, repairing and replacing crumbling facilities, and providing affordable, quality child care and afterschool opportunities. The President's education and child care initiatives address the concerns of working families and parents who stay at home.

I am very pleased with the President's Lands Legacy Initiative to enhance conservation efforts and improve the quality and enjoyment of life for all Americans. The funds will enable us to increase and improve our national park, forest, and public land systems, as well as help communities improve urban parks, green spaces, wildlife habitats, and air and water quality. This initiative offers a promising source of support for preserving Hawaii's unique and endangered ecosystem.

The initiatives proposed this evening build on Democratic accomplishments which have increased economic opportunities and wage security for Americans, turned a $404 billion budget deficit to a $76 billion surplus this year--the largest dollar surplus in history, increased investments since 1993 in education, children, health care, and research and development, and protected our natural resources and food supply.