Van Hollen Statement on the State of the Union

Washington, DC – Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, today issued the following statement on President Obama’s State of the Union address:

“Tonight, President Obama laid out the stark situation our nation faces – we are at a crossroads. Will we invest in America’s future and help working families build a better future for themselves and their children? Or will we go back to politics that worked for the wealthiest and Wall Street but failed Main Street?  I believe the President has put forth a clear path to give every American a fair shot at success and allow every child a chance at a better future.

“Our economic recovery has come a long way, but there is no question that we still have work to do.  Putting Americans back to work and spurring economic growth is priority number one for President Obama and Democrats in Congress. The President’s four pillars for a country and an economy built to last – American manufacturing, American energy, skills for American workers, and a renewal of American values – are an important blueprint for a successful future for our nation.  At the same time, we must work now to put in place a balanced plan to reduce the deficit over the long-term.

“The American dream is not dead – but it is becoming increasingly difficult for people to achieve.  I hope that my Republican colleagues will work with us to rebuild an economy that works for everyone, not just special interests.  There is simply too much at stake.”