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Meng Issues Statement on President Trump’s Address to Congress

February 28, 2017
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) tonight issued the following statement on President Trump's first address to a Joint session of Congress.
"I was disheartened to hear about President Trump's priorities for the upcoming year. His first month has been tumultuous at best, from the chaotic implementation of his disgraceful travel ban to the resignation of his National Security Advisor to his self-inflicted war with the media.
Tonight he spoke of tax reform that would mainly help wealthy corporations, not working men and women. His continued push for a border wall would not fix our broken immigration system. He talked about supporting law enforcement and victims of crime but won't support gun safety legislation. His insistence on a repeal and replace of Obamacare that would expand choice and lower costs is not realistic. Congressional Republicans have not offered any replacement plans that would meet those criteria.
I agree with President Trump that we must do more to find solutions to problems such as infrastructure investment, affordable childcare, paid family leave and helping our veterans. I hope Congress and the Administration can work together on these and other important issues. I truly hope that the President will follow through on his pledge to find common ground, advance the common good, and work to make the future brighter for our children. I hope this will be a turning point for the Administration—the American people deserve serious leadership."