Cole Statement on President Trump’s 2020 State of the Union Address

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after President Donald Trump delivered his annual State of the Union address during a joint session of Congress.

"Tonight, we heard from President Trump at the top of his game, and he rightly reminded the American people of the tremendous results delivered during his tenure," said Cole. "President Trump came to office determined and ready to fulfill the promises he made to the American people, and he has successfully done just that.

"Thanks to his leadership over the last three years, more than 7 million jobs have been created, unemployment has hit the lowest level in 50 years and consumer confidence is the highest it's been in a generation. Even amid a choppy global economy, the United States continues to lead the developed world in job creation and economic benefits for its citizens. Before he'd even finished his first year in office, he worked with Republicans in Congress to deliver the historic Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which continues to benefit hardworking American families and small business job creators. He certainly deserves credit for reining in needless regulations and eliminating damaging rules to the American economy as well.

"Indeed, the president should also be commended for the significant trade wins achieved in recent days – including the historic United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement with our North American neighbors, Phase 1 of a critical trade deal with China and negotiations on other deals with our traditional allies like Japan.

"Following years of underfunding the nation's defense during the previous administration, I am proud that President Trump has actively sought to rebuild the American military and restore much-needed readiness for our troops. Indeed, the steps taken to strengthen our common defense put our service members in a better position to fight our adversaries, including successful defeat of the physical caliphate established by ISIS and the removal of many terrorist leaders from the battlefield.

"As we look to the future, I am pleased that President Trump outlined a bold agenda for the coming year and over the longer term. During a time of sharp divisions and deep polarization nationwide, I am proud that the president delivered a masterful speech inviting all Americans to remember and appreciate just how far we've come," concluded Cole.