Blog: A Vision for the Future

Statement

Dear Friend,

This Tuesday, President Obama delivered his annual State of the Union address, defining his vision for the future of our country. His address focused on his hope for a year of action and called on Congress to put aside partisan differences in order to do what is right for our country. With the American people still waiting for action on so many critical issues, I stand with the President, ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.

I was pleased to hear the President's speech focus on creating opportunity for the middle-class through job creation initiatives, promoting job training and placement programs, and supporting our innovative entrepreneurs. As he rightly pointed out, investment in early childhood education programs can set our children up for a bright and prosperous future. I was grateful that the President announced he would take steps, through Executive Order, to raise the minimum wage for federal contractors. He urged Congress to raise the minimum wage for all workers to ensure that someone who works full-time does not have to struggle to provide for their families. As the President laid out, these vital initiatives serve as engines to improve our economy and create opportunities now and for future generations.

It is no secret that Congress has faced serious partisan gridlock for the past few years and much of it has been centered around repealing the Affordable Care Act. I agree with the President that we cannot spend all of our time focused only on repealing the law. Instead, we need to come together to strengthen this important law while also addressing the wide array of other issues that matter to the American people.

I am hopeful that Congress will work together to make this a year of action and rebuild the trust of the people who elected us to represent them. If there are any matters I can assist you with please reach out to my office.

Regards,

André

Source