Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after this evening’s State of the Union address:

“Tonight, the President gave an outstanding speech that reflected optimism and a desire to seek bipartisan solutions and a hopeful vision for America.  Much has been accomplished and together we can build on these successes.

We passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, providing much needed relief for hard-working Americans and small businesses.  Approximately 2.4 million new jobs have been created and unemployment claims have hit a 45-year low, while the stock market continues to reach new highs.  Over 250 companies across America have announced either wage increases or bonuses that are a direct result of the tax act, including local companies such as Nelnet, and regional employers such as Union Bank & Trust, Pinnacle Bank and Lawrence Paper Company.

As we build upon this achievement, we must invest in workforce development and job training. I agree with the President’s idea of investing in great vocational schools so Americans can learn a new craft and realize the American dream. To preserve that dream, we must also maintain a strong defense.

As members of Congress, we must answer the President’s call to fully fund our defense and ensure our military is prepared for the challenges they face. Those challenges include North Korea and their nuclear capability, Iran and even ISIS. Although almost 100 percent of the territory ISIS occupied in Iraq and Syria has been liberated, they are still a threat. By keeping Guantanamo Bay open, we can ensure that these terrorists are contained and no longer poses a threat to the safety of America.

The President also discussed the framework for his immigration plan, which will address securing the border, ending the visa lottery system, ends extended family immigration, and offers a path to citizenship for 1.8 million illegal immigrants. His offer to Congress provides a strong basis for a compromise solution.

The safety of America also depends on a safe, fast, reliable and modern infrastructure system and we must address it now. The President’s idea of leveraging federal dollars with state and local governments, and private sector, where appropriate, will help permanently fix infrastructure development.

We cannot limit our achievements to just legislative accomplishments. Our success should be measured by the impact we have in our schools, businesses, neighborhoods and communities. I look forward to working with my colleagues across the aisle, along with the President, to help us realize our full potential as Americans.

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