Statement on State of the Union speech

Walt Minnick - Right for Idaho

February 10, 2010

Minnick statement on State of the Union speech

“It was good to hear the president make clear that he hears the anger and frustration of so many Idahoans about the state of our country and our economy. Like the president and most Americans, I believe that it’s time to end a culture where every day is Election Day, and instead begin working together in a bipartisan fashion to address the grave challenges facing our nation.

“I applaud his order to implement a commission on entitlement reform. I agree that earmark reform is a critical step to show we are serious about fiscal responsibility. And I strongly support implementation of “pay as you go” rules to make sure we stop spending money we do not have. I also believe that our nation’s security will continue to be jeopardized if we do not address the shocking federal debt. The spending freeze is a proposal worth considering, but we must be prepared to be bold and do more to address the poor health of our nation’s finances.

“I was pleased to hear suggestions for things very important to me and to Idaho: increased agricultural exports, tax credits for small business, support for community banks and measures to help people attend college. I agree with the president – no one should go broke because they choose to go to college.

“I look forward to working with the president and with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address these issues, and to continue the process of restoring and renewing America.”