Congresswoman Kosmas’ Statement on the President’s State of the Union Address

(Washington, DC) – In response to President Obama’s State of the Union address, Congresswoman Suzanne Kosmas (FL-24) issued the following statement:

“We must redouble our efforts to create jobs and promote fiscal responsibility. Though the President’s speech was a step in the right direction, with a call for tax relief to help small businesses hire new workers, investments in clean energy jobs, and the creation of a bipartisan debt commission, it remains to be seen whether or not he can overcome the partisan bickering and special interests that stand in the way.”

“I am also disappointed that the President did not take this opportunity to highlight the importance of NASA and human spaceflight, especially in light of reports casting doubt on the future of our space exploration program. Human spaceflight boosts our economy, helps develop countless new technologies, and supports thousands of jobs in Central Florida and across the country. Space exploration is also critical for inspiring this and future generations to excel in science and technology that will make us competitive in the 21st Century.

“The President has pledged to minimize the spaceflight gap and Space Coast families are looking for him to fulfill that promise. It will be unacceptable if his budget does not reflect a commitment to a robust human spaceflight program.

“In the coming weeks and months, the President and Congress will have to prove that they are listening to the American people by following through with real action on job creation and fiscal responsibility. I will do my part by continuing to work across the aisle to encourage job growth, boost our economy, rein in spending, and lower the deficit. These are the priorities that matter to Central Floridians, and the people who elected us deserve to know that their voices are being heard.”