Rep. George Latimer
U.S. Representative George Latimer (NY-16) released the following statement after attending the Presidential Address to Congress:
“President Trump, in his first major address of his second term, could have given a reason to all Americans to welcome his new term.
He could have described in detail how he planned to lower the cost of living for everyday Americans.
But rather, he defended his decision to levy tariffs that will raise everyday prices, and stifle economic growth. The stock market continued its slide, showing that Wall Street and Main Street reject tariffs. All economic indicators are now below what they were on Election Day in 2024.
He could have described how he would help secure a better life for seniors and veterans. But he did nothing to dispel plans for major cuts to the Social Security Administration or Department of Veterans Affairs, meaning deserving seniors and veterans will get fewer benefits than they have earned. There was no pushback against Elon Musk’s ‘Ponzi Scheme’ slur against social security.
He could have described how America will take the lead in the Free World, defending democracy on every continent, as did Dwight Eisenhower, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush, as well as all Democratic Presidents. Instead, he punishes Canada, Mexico, insults Denmark, ignores Britain and France, and sacrifices Ukraine to appease Russia.
The massive, erratic cuts to government departments does not show a rational, business-like strategy. It shows an ideological desire to throw the baby out with the bath water, systemic cuts rather than well-planned, strategic cuts.
This is no way to run a government. I know. I ran one well for seven years. It appears this speech is a terrible roadmap for the next four years.”
