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Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s final State of the Union Address:

“Tonight, the President reflected on the progress we’ve made over the last seven years – and the work we have left undone. Since 2009, we have seen 70 consecutive months of private sector job growth, the lowest uninsured rate in five decades, giant strides taken in the great need we have to act on climate change, and many more achievements we should be proud of.

However, Congress still has a large to-do list. From updating the Voting Rights Act, to fighting against bad trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership that suppress American wages, to updating our aging infrastructure above and below ground, Democrats and Republicans must come together. We must understand the challenges we face and the decisions we make, or don’t make, impact our communities, families and small businesses in meaningful ways.  

The problems that need fixing in our great nation are nonpartisan. Our approach must be thoughtful and academic. The American people deserve nothing less,” said Tonko.