Working together, Republicans and Democrats
can achieve results for the American people

Congressman Thomas M. Reynolds (R-NY26) issued the following statement regarding the President's State of the Union address that was televised on January 23:

"The President offered bold and responsible policies that will address America's challenges, ranging from energy independence to affordable health care to fiscal restraint in Washington.

"Working together, I believe Republicans and Democrats can achieve real results for the American people.

"To strengthen America's energy security, the President offered an ambitious challenge: to reduce U.S. gasoline usage by 20 percent over the next 10 years. A commitment to alternative energy will be good for our security, our environment and for western New York. From the ethanol plant in Medina to the development of fuel cell technology in Rochester, our region will play an important role in the plan for energy independence.

"The President also addressed the need for high-quality, accessible and flexible health care for all Americans. ... I urge both sides of the aisle to work together to enact meaningful reform.

"Keeping taxes low and eliminating wasteful spending is another area where Congress needs to deliver for the American people and economy.

"He also addressed possibly the biggest challenge of our time, the war on terror and Iraq. Like all Americans and western New Yorkers, my patience is limited, but I will not play politics with our troops; they deserve the support, supplies and funding they need to be successful. I urge both sides to work together to find a solution to Iraq.

"Bipartisan cooperation will be critical to ensuring that this Congress is successful. I look forward to working together to make America stronger and more secure."

January 28, 2007