Representative Smith Statement on Trump's Joint Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Smith (D-Wash.) released the following statement:

“Last night, President Trump addressed a joint session of Congress. As Commander-in-Chief, he could have used this forum to bring the country together during a time of economic distress. Instead, he used his speech to mislead the American people and lie about critical issues. The American people deserve better from their President. 

“Families across our nation are struggling with high grocery prices, unaffordable housing, and expensive health care costs. Instead of addressing these problems, Trump has used his platform to reduce assistance for veterans, cut off cancer research, and cancel school meals for kids. He has spent the first 43 days in office cutting blank checks to the richest 1 percent, while leaving Middle-America to foot the bill. 

“The President’s priorities, from the economy to national security, are clearly wrong. At Trump’s urging, Elon Musk is blindly firing thousands of essential federal employees that keep our skies safe, safeguard our nuclear weapons, and keep our communities healthy from foreign viruses. Trump has also used the last 43 days alienate all of our friends in the world and make concession after concession to Putin. Trump’s efforts appear to be focused on weakening our federal government so he, Elon Musk, and their billionaire supporters can have great unchecked power.

“I urge my constituents who are concerned about Trump’s actions to remain engaged. Prioritize the issues that concern you most and devote your energy to addressing those issues. Our democracy thrives when people are present and informed. I am committed to standing with my constituents against policies that undermine our democracy, erode civil liberties, and favor the wealthy at the expense of working families.”

###