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TIM HUTCHINSON UNITED STATES SENATOR  ARKANSAS | ||
Contact: D.J. O'Brien (202) 224-2353
January 29, 2002
Senator Tim Hutchinson Responds to President Bush's State of the Union Address
Senator Tim Hutchinson made the following statement in response President Bush's State of the Union Address: "Tonight, President Bush charted a clear path for the nation to win the war on terrorism, secure the homeland, and reinvigorate our economy. We are a country at war and in recession; yet I firmly believe that under the President's strong leadership the American people are poised not just to endure these challenges, but to confront them, prevail, and emerge stronger than before.
"Our military has routed an oppressive regime, rounded up al Qaeda members, and liberated an oppressed people. However, the President has made it clear that victory will not be defined by the capture of Osama bin Laden or the overthrow of the Taliban. Ultimately, we must root out and neutralize those terrorists throughout the world who threaten freedom-loving people. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I am committed to working with President Bush to revitalize the military and ensure our servicemen and women have the resources they need to win the war on terrorism.
"Our freedom-fighters at home – the fire fighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, and other first-responders – must also have the training and equipment they need to respond to the full range of terrorist threats. Our budget must reflect this priority.
"National security includes economic security. Congress should delay no further in passing an economic security package to stimulate growth and create jobs. The President has proposed and the House has passed a bipartisan compromise that would provide an immediate boost to our economy and help displaced workers. I will continue to fight for this stimulus proposal in the Senate.
"The Senate must also match the House in passing a Farm Bill that provides a strong safety net, retains maximum flexibility for producers, and increases successful conservation programs. The planting season is almost upon us and farmers in Arkansas and around the nation need the support and stability that only a new Farm Bill can provide. This must be among the first measures we send to the President this year.
"Finally, Congress must do everything it can to ensure that Americans have access to reliable and affordable health care. This should include enactment of a meaningful prescription drug benefit under Medicare. I am working with several of my colleagues to develop Medicare prescription drug legislation. Medicare is a top priority for Arkansas seniors, and I will continue to work hard to ensure that the federal government meets its obligation to provide quality health care to our seniors.
"Since the tragedies of September 11th, the American people have united behind our common values as a nation. I hope Congress and the President will follow this spirit and address the challenges we face with bipartisan commitment."
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