WASHINGTON — Congressman John Carney (D-DE) tonight issued the following statement in response to the President’s State of the Union address:

“As the President has said many times and reiterated tonight, middle class families across America are working harder and harder, and still struggling to get by. I was pleased to hear the President focus his remarks on supporting middle class jobs, and creating opportunities for young people to compete for the jobs of the future.

“While we’ve made dramatic progress since the financial crisis, for families still looking for work or unable to make their mortgage payments, we have more work to do. The American dream means every person having the opportunity to succeed.

“To make that a reality, we need government policies that encourage businesses to locate here in the U.S. and to make things in America again. We need a higher education system that includes affordable options for all students. We need an energy policy that promotes 21st century jobs and protects our environment. We need a housing finance system that preserves the 30-year fixed rate mortgage. We need an immigration system that makes our economy stronger and welcomes those who play by the rules. And we need a long-term budget plan that’s fair and sets our country on a sustainable course.

“The President laid out a strong vision tonight for how we can accomplish these priorities. He said this year could be a breakthrough year for our country. I hope my colleagues in Congress will take up his mantle and start passing laws that strengthen the middle class and create opportunities for America’s future.”

 

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