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Barrett comments on State of the Union Address

web posted January 25, 2007

WASHINGTON D.C. – Congressman J. Gresham Barrett (SC, 3) released the following statement in response to the State of the Union address delivered by President Bush. "President Bush is guiding our nation through one of the most challenging times in our history," said Barrett.  "First and foremost, we remain in the midst of a global war against a ruthless enemy who is hoping the resolve of the American people will falter.  While here at home we are facing crisis situations in our health care and social security systems, our dependence on foreign sources of energy is far too high, and our immigration system is overextended and ineffective."

"Whether we agree or disagree with his ideas, President Bush deserves credit for not just talking about these issues, but for presenting a plan of action on each.  It is clear that he wants to work together to find common sense solutions to the challenges we currently face.  The President put forth a positive comprehensive agenda for 2007 that will move our nation toward a safer tomorrow and improve the daily lives of our citizens today." 

On the War on terror Barrett said, "Just a little over ten days ago, President Bush outlined a new way forward in Iraq.  Tonight he reiterated that plan.  He also reminded the American people that the war on terror is larger than Iraq and American security depends on our resolve to win.  The threat to our nation remains real and we cannot let our guard down.  We must continue to fight these terrorists on the streets of Kabul and Baghdad, go after their financial networks, and uncover their plots so we never see their acts of terror in our city streets again.  On this issue we must not be divided by politics, we come together and stand united against our enemies."

"Additionally, I was pleased to hear the President put real numbers behind his call to increase the overall size of our military.  This is something I have talked about for years.  We should also take a look at where we have our military placed throughout the world, and ensure that it makes sense strategically when considering the threats we face today." 

In regard to Health care Congressman Barrett stated, "There is no doubt that America has the most innovative and advance health care system in the world.  Unfortunately, many Americans do not have access to affordable health insurance, which can hinder the quality of care a person receives.  The President put forth bold new ideas tonight to make private health insurance more affordable.  The nation should move toward a system in which individuals have increased ownership over their medical decisions.  President Bush understands helping to provide better access to basic, affordable private insurance is one way for that to occur.  Additionally, I join the President as a proponent of common sense ideas like implementing AHP's and HSA's, and tackling the issue of medical liability reform." 

In spending measures Congressman Barrett held true to his conservative base, "The President discussed fiscal restraint and spending reforms. This is an area where I feel both the President and Congress have let the American people down.  We cannot continue to spend money at the rate we have been, and in the way we have been.  As Vice Ranking member of the House Budget Committee I will work hard to ensure the common sense reforms President Bush discussed tonight, like balancing the budget, preventing unnecessary earmarks and gaining control over entitlement spending are addressed. Also, the President is correct to note the fiscal challenge that faces the nation as it relates to Social Security is not getting better. Every year we put off finding a real workable solution, the bigger that challenge becomes. Let's come together and do what is right - our children and grandchildren deserve better than this broken system."

Energy issues also topped the list of issues for Barrett, "Last year President Bush said he wanted to 'replace more than 75 percent of our oil imports from the Middle East by 2025.' A bold goal, but one we must aim to meet.  Tonight, the President did not back down from his strong desire to reduce our dependence on foreign countries for energy sources.  His 'Twenty in Ten' goal to reduce US gasoline usage by 20 percent in the next ten years is aggressive, but necessary. 

"Our dependence on foreign countries for our energy supply is more than an energy issue - today it is also a national security issue.  We should open up places, like the ANWR, here at home for exploration while we continue to look for alternative fuel sources.  I am proud of the research taking place in South Carolina at facilities like the Aiken County Center for Hydrogen Research, the South Carolina Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Alliance, the Savannah River National Laboratory, and the International Center for Automotive Research.  In addition, I remain committed to the idea that our nation should build a new nuclear reactor.  Considering the technological advances that have been made in the thirty plus years since our nation last built a reactor, it makes sense for a state like South Carolina - with seven reactors currently generating more than half the state's electricity making it our nation's third largest producer of nuclear power - to pursue a new reactor.

Barrett also differed with President Bush on Immigration issues, "I hoped the President would not move forward with a comprehensive immigration plan. I continue to believe we must gain control over our borders first. I appreciate what President Bush has done to beef up security at the border and to end the failed program of 'catch and release', but now is not the time for a comprehensive plan which grants amnesty to anyone.”

 

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