Dupage Policy Journal

Issued the following announcement on Feb. 4.

President Donald Trump addressed Congress this evening, delivering his third State of the Union address since he took office in 2017.

The President spoke of "the great American comeback,” highlighting key election year accomplishments including US economic and military strength.

Jeanne Ives, a candidate for US Congress (IL-06), issued the following statement in response: 

“To some degree, we knew that the President would use his State of the Union address to spike the ball a bit on his economic and military successes. Rightly so. From judicious trade deals to strong job growth, the president’s policies have helped to deliver more opportunities for American families than we have seen since Ronald Reagan. He doubled down on the need to protect our health care system from the ravages of socialism. And, of course, I appreciated the president’s recognition of military families and military operations.

“But what was unexpected about his speech was the tone. These are polarizing times. And the president typically plays to his base. Tonight, he rose above just his own base with a broader message. He talked about a blue collar boom; he talked about inclusiveness; he recognized General Charles McGee, a Tuskegee Airman, civil rights, Martin Luther King, Jr., Selma, historically black colleges and universities, Frederick Douglass and Harriett Tubman. He talked about the demand for school choice programs and was generous with Congress - giving them credit for the role they played in recent economic successes.

“The President’s optimism made Democrats look particularly small, as they refused to stand for increased employment rates in Black communities and among women, for American heroes being recognized, or for a young girl who finally would be able to attend the school of her family’s choice. Perhaps, most immaturely, Speaker Pelosi ripped up her copy of the speech before she left the dias like a child having a tantrum.

“We have to get past this. In 2018, one of the most bitterly partisan Congresses America has ever known was swept into office. It is time to put aside personality, and work together to move the country forward. We have a lot to do - especially in the field of health care, immigration and national security. There is common ground to be found. Stone-walling for political gain will only delay much needed solutions.

“As a Congresswoman,  I will work with President and reasonable colleagues in the US House regardless of party, so that we can continue to build on the pro-growth policy successes that are strengthening our economy and helping more Americans achieve their dreams.”