Congressman Young Previews State of the Union Address Announces Special Iowa Guest

Press Release

Iowa Congressman David Young released the following statement previewing what he hopes to hear from President Obama during the annual State of the Union address Tuesday evening.

"The American people sent a direct message on November 4. Frankly, I would like to see the President acknowledge that he heard the voters, that the President must begin to work with Congress," said Congressman Young.

Young noted, "With the House and Senate back in Republican control, I can say a majority of my colleagues understand this basic principle -- do not spend more than you make. The President should too. A more accountable, transparent, efficient, and fiscally responsible government is needed in Washington, DC." The Congressman added, "A balanced budget amendment should also be taken seriously. The American people have to balance their budgets, so should the government."

Senior aides to the President have revealed that wage stagnation and declining economic mobility will be addressed tonight. On this issue, the Congressman said, "Rather than seeking to reignite class warfare, the President should address an issue that many agree on, simplifying and updating our tax code through structural reform. A healthier economy and tax relief for hardworking Americans will provide the engine for economic growth and prosperity the middle class has been waiting for."

Our entitlement programs have longed been ignored. Tonight, Congressman Young would like the President to, "Show his conviction, and commit to Congress that he is ready to work in a bi-partisan fashion to strengthen Social Security and Medicare to ensure their solvency."

On January 9th Congressman Young voted for legislation that passed the House authorizing the construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. Tonight, the Congressman suggested, "The President should put his Democratic Senators on notice, we need an all-of-the-above energy strategy, and it starts with getting the Keystone XL approved."

On the critical issues of terrorism and national security, Congressman Young, who was named to the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee said, "Our President must take the threat of terrorism seriously. I want to see him reassure the nation tonight that he is keeping us safe, and that he will act if necessary -- he will lead. We deserve this from our Commander in Chief."

Keeping with a tradition that began in 2011, Congressman Young reached out and arranged sitting with his colleague from Iowa, Democratic Congressman Dave Loebsack, to watch the speech. Congressman Young noted, "In these times of heightened partisanship, the American people want their leaders to practice political civility and try and find common ground to move our country forward."

The Congressman's special guest for the address will be a Bishop Richard Pates of the Des Moines Diocese. Bishop Pates will watch the address from the House Gallery and has been invited by Speaker John Boehner, the House Chaplin and Congressman Young to lead the House with the traditional opening prayer at 11:00 AM Central Time on Wednesday, January 21st.

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