Rep. Takano Statement on President Joe Biden's First State of the Union Address

Press Release

Today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released this statement following President Joe Biden's first State of the Union address.

"President Biden's commitment to fighting for the American people was on full display during his first State of the Union address. He has proven that he is fulfilling the promises he made to grow our economy from the bottom up and the middle out; to support workers and families recovering from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; to produce more goods in America; and to reaffirm our competitiveness on the global stage.

"While the past year has had its challenges, we have made incredible progress, and communities across the country, including Riverside County, have already begun to see the results of the incredible work that President Biden has championed. Thanks to his American Rescue Plan, $1.9 trillion was allocated to providing financial assistance to millions of families and businesses, reopening schools, and distributing COVID-19 vaccines. And, thanks to his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we were able to make significant investments in our infrastructure and broadband, and create two million good-paying jobs.

"President Biden has also shown himself to be a strong, strategic leader globally, working both domestically and with our overseas allies to impose and expand sanctions on Russia after President Putin launched an unprovoked and unjustified war against the sovereign nation of Ukraine. It has been made clear that the United States will not stand for such an attack on democracy and violations of international law, global peace, and security. Unfortunately, this conflict has also driven up costs for Americans, but President Biden highlighted the ways in which his Administration is working to ensure sufficient oil supplies here at home and to provide stability to world oil markets. I hope we will continue to support the brave people of Ukraine with military, economic, and humanitarian assistance, and work with our partners to further weaken and hold Russia accountable.

"There is still much work to be done to build our country back better, and I support President Biden's goals to raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, creating a national comprehensive paid family leave and medical leave program, fighting climate change, and extending the Child Tax Credit. I also hope that we will be able to advance my Honoring our PACT Act to recognize and address toxic exposure for our nation's heroes.

"America's best days lie ahead, and with a responsible and compassionate leader like President Biden in the White House, I'm optimistic that we will be able to achieve our shared goals and create a more perfect union for all. It's never a good idea to bet against America or the American people."

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