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Gingrey on State of the Union Address: Choice and Innovation win out over Big Government
Praises Bush for focus on security, healthcare

U.S. Capitol

Washington, Jan 23, 2007 - U.S. Congressman Phil Gingrey, M.D. today made the following remarks following President Bush’s State of the Union Address:

“The President spoke with strength and conviction tonight. I am extremely pleased he framed his domestic policy initiatives in terms of innovation and choice, not expanded government bureaucracy. The American people expect the new Democrat majority to address these problems the right way. Our citizens don’t want socialized medicine or kid gloves for terrorists. We in Congress need to heed this message.

“The President delivered several important messages I hope Congress earnestly considers. Foremost among these was his reminder that our efforts in Iraq are directly linked to the larger global War on Terror. He is absolutely right, and it is a connection that is too often forgotten. Simply put, we are fighting terrorism abroad so we don’t have to fight it at home. Congress has a solemn responsibility to give our government and military the right tools to protect us from radical terrorists bent on destroying our nation. The President has a plan for victory, and Congress should not tie one hand behind his back as he’s preparing to deliver the knock-out punch. Success is far more important than kowtowing to political pressure to abandon our mission.

“I was encouraged to hear President Bush discuss some new ideas on healthcare access and affordability. As a physician, I agree we should give individuals greater control over their healthcare decisions, rather than relying on employers and bureaucratic federal programs. Concerns over health coverage shouldn’t deter someone from switching jobs or starting a new business, but it often does. That’s because our current system links health coverage to a specific employer, meaning those who are self-employed or work for small businesses often can’t afford the coverage they need. By reforming the system – linking health coverage to the individual instead of the employer – we can help Americans afford quality care, no matter where they work.

“The most disappointing part of the President’s speech clearly came on immigration. I am very concerned that the President’s guest worker proposal is a plan for amnesty. The state of Georgia has felt the full impact of illegal immigration on our healthcare, education and social welfare systems, and amnesty would only exacerbate these problems.

“Tonight, the President laid out a bold vision for our nation in these extraordinary and often difficult times. Now, it is up to the Congress to enact legislation that supports our troops, protects our homeland, expands access to quality healthcare, and reduces our dependency on foreign oil. President Bush made a strong case for bipartisan support on these initiatives. It is my hope and expectation that the Democrat majorities in the House and Senate will not let partisanship stand in the way of progress for the American people. As we begin the 110th Congress, I remain committed to safeguarding our nation from harm, safeguarding your wallet from increased taxes, and safeguarding our citizens from the overreaching hand of the federal government.”