TV cameras turned to Washington for the “State of the Union” address, but President Trump used the moment to turn to the stories of the American people.  He honored our brave service members, firefighters, and police officers.  He spoke about the small business owners and skilled workers seeking to make positive change as the economy strengthens.  He highlighted the stories of American warriors and families who have saved lives.  These stories reaffirm, as President Trump stated, “that the state of our Union is strong because our people are strong.”

Economic Wins for Working Americans

This belief in empowering the American people has driven much of the progress of the past year.  The historic tax reform bill passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump was a major milestone, offering crucial relief to American workers, who will now send less of their hard-earned money to Washington.  At the same time, the tax cuts’ impact on businesses is helping deliver bonus checks and higher wages to millions of Americans. 

Companies at home and around the world have more reasons than the updated tax system to do business, invest, and create jobs in the United States.  The economy is reaching new highs, and the Trump Administration has cut needless regulations that would have cost billions of dollars. 

Infrastructure, Immigration on President’s Agenda

The work does not stop here.  The quality of our nation’s roads, ports, railways, and even internet connections has a direct bearing on the well-being of Americans and our economic success.  I am glad the President reiterated his support for Congress to enact an infrastructure bill that builds a safe and modern transportation system.  We need to work collaboratively and resourcefully at the local, state, and federal levels to address the current backlog of infrastructure projects across the nation. 

I am also hopeful that President Trump’s calls to Congress for immigration reform will create a space for solutions.  We have a broken immigration system and a southern border in need of reinforcement. 

A Strong, Safe Future for America

Finally, as commander in chief, President Trump used his first “State of the Union” address to update the nation on the missions of our armed services, including the fight against the Islamic State.  The campaign to defeat these terrorists is working: They have lost nearly all of the ground they once controlled in Iraq and Syria.  Protecting these gains and our national security interests depends on continued vigilance and military strength.  Like the President, I believe Congress needs to fix the defense sequester, ending the reckless cuts jeopardizing our military might.

President Trump concluded his address with a reminder that this nation still belongs to its people.  He said, “The people dreamed this country. The people built this country. And it’s the people who are making America great again.”  Indeed, America’s story cannot be written any other way.