Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th) today issued the following statement after President Obama delivered an address to Congress on jobs:

            “It’s not hard to see why expectations weren’t very high for today’s speech.  Like the President said, ‘This approach is basically the one I’ve been advocating for months.’  This should have been an opportunity for the President to show that he has learned from the failure of the stimulus, and is ready to try something new.  Unfortunately, that didn’t seem to be the case.

            “There were a lot of promises about what this plan would accomplish, but very little about how.  I look forward to reviewing the actual legislative text of the President’s proposal, but I’m disappointed that so much – especially how it will be paid for – falls under the column of ‘to be determined.’ 

            “Some parts of this plan, including certain tax cuts, credits and deductions do have the potential to win bipartisan support.  For example, the President voiced support for extending the deduction on investments in new equipment.  That makes sense.  But these tax cuts must be targeted at economic growth, and not just used as an excuse to raise taxes on those who create jobs.

            “The simple truth is that more failed stimulus spending on the same old projects tried in 2009 is a recipe for deficit explosion and a double-dip recession, no matter what kind of bank taxpayer funds are funneled through.  

            “One area where the President can make an immediate difference is on trade.  He called on Congress to pass the three pending trade agreements with South Korea, Panama, and Colombia.  Together, these agreements would create 250,000 American jobs and increase exports by $13 billion dollars.  I wholeheartedly agree, and he should send those agreements to Congress immediately. 

            “While the policy ideas were old, the President did show that he has a newfound sense of urgency on jobs.  I hope that means he will come to Congress next week ready to negotiate with those on both sides to craft a plan than can pass, that won’t drive up the debt, and will provide American businesses the certainly and stability they need to create jobs.”

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