Rep. Cole Comments on State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON - Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) made the following statement about the President's State of the Union Address to the nation.

"The President took full advantage of his last State of the Union address to give the American people a candid assessment of our country's future. He laid out an impressive and important agenda for continued success over the next calendar year and paid special attention to the issues that are affecting Americans most. He highlighted many of our nation's most pressing issues such as a need for continued economic progress and the importance of continuing to fight and defeat the forces of terror around the world."

"The President is clearly determined to sprint to the finish line of his Presidency. He recognizes that everyday that he is in office is another opportunity for him to do his part to mold a better America. It was evident during his speech that he has tried to focus his final address on this year's legislative agenda while propounding an optimistic vision for our country's future."

"I believe, as the President does, that it is critical to acknowledge the work of our men and women serving in the military. I know that the President's words are being heard tonight by our troops serving in America and around the world. Their day-in, day-out service to our country allows the rest of us at home to enjoy the freedoms that have been fought for and defended throughout our history. I appreciate the President's words of support to our nation's brave service members and will to fully support our military as they are engaged in tough fights in Iraq and Afghanistan."

"The President has rightly stressed the importance of building a healthy economy. I agree with his call for Congress to immediately pass a bipartisan economic growth package. Congress should also act to make the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent so that Americans can see the results in their pocketbook. This will then let Americans spend as they see fit and give the economy an important boost."

"The President also called for a permanent fix to the outdated Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) of 1978. We need to make sure our overseas intelligence officials are not forced to waste valuable time seeking court orders before being able to monitor the communications of suspected foreign terrorists overseas. I believe Congress needs to pass a permanent fix in short order before the Protect America Act expires and before we face a gap in our foreign surveillance."

"Besides those issues, the President discussed the importance of implementing new education initiatives, creating moderate changes to housing and health care and appropriating more money to fight AIDS and malaria in developing nations. These are goals worthy of our great nation. To achieve these objectives Congress must reject the 'politics as usual' attitude and embrace true bipartisanship."

"I agree with the President that this is an important year for our nation. I am proud that he has decided to push ahead with determination and optimism. Many of the initiatives he proposed, when enacted upon, will positively affect life for every American. If Congress works with the President, the coming year can be one of progress rather than partisanship. George Bush is willing to meet this Congress more than half way. It is up to Republicans and Democrats alike to respond in a sprit of bipartisan cooperation."