Bera Comments on 2015 State of the Union Address

Statement

"Tonight the president put forward his plan to expand opportunity and make the American economy work for everyone. Too many Sacramento County families still aren't feeling the impact of the economic recovery and we need to do more to rebuild an economy that works for the middle class. As someone who went to public school from kindergarten through medical school and benefitted from this country's investments in me, I believe that means investing in the next generation to prepare them for the jobs of the 21st century. It also means investing in our country's infrastructure and in the kind of innovation and technology that grows our economy.

The president also addressed the importance of defending our nation's safety and security. We must stay vigilant and work with our allies around the globe to combat terrorism wherever it exists. As we face critical situations around the world it will be more important than ever for President Obama to work with Congress on a plan that defines achievable goals to protect our national security without engaging in another unending conflict.

But in order to address our most pressing challenges, it will be imperative for us to find ways to work together. As we start this new term, I'll continue fighting to put people ahead of politics, and to make government work for the people of Sacramento County. That's why I'm a leader of the No Labels' Problem Solvers, a group of Members of Congress from both parties who are working across the aisle to build trust and find common ground. We cannot move forward separately, only together.

It was an honor to have Susan Oliver as my guest tonight. Her strength in the face of tragedy is inspiring. Susan lost her husband Danny last year, when he was killed in the line of duty serving as a Sacramento County sheriff's deputy. Their story is a reminder of the sacrifices our law enforcement make every day to keep us safe. We must work to rebuild trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve and I'm glad the president's message on this issue was one on unity and not division."

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