Rep. Huffman Statement on President Obama’s State of the Union Address

January 29, 2014

WASHINGTON­—Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) released the following statement tonight after President Obama delivered the State of the Union Address before Congress:

“There was much to like in President Obama’s speech: he presented a concrete plan to strengthen the middle class, boost our economy, and address the growing income disparity in America.

As a new member of Congress, I share President Obama’s frustration that House Republicans refuse to work with him—or anyone—on many issues that we actually agree on. I hope last year’s disastrous government shutdown was a wakeup call for the Republicans who I know want to work across party lines and get things done.

In that light, I am pleased that President Obama announced that he will use his executive authority to issue a minimum wage hike for federal contractors. Earlier this year I sent a letter urging President Obama to do just this, and it’s a decisive victory to help hardworking Americans earn a fair and livable wage.

I’m also pleased that President Obama also declared that he will use his executive authority to protect more of our pristine public lands for future generations. I hope this includes the Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands on the Mendocino Coast, which I introduced a bill to protect.

I look forward to working with President Obama and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle throughout the rest of the 113th Congress to ensure that all Americans have the opportunities they need to succeed."

Huffman is holding a telephone town hall this Thursday, January 30 at 7 p.m. to discuss the State of the Union. Sign up HERE.