Crapo: Tax Relief Should Stay, Budget Deficit Must Be Addressed

Washington, DC â?? After listening to President Bushâ??s State of the Union address this evening, Idaho Senator Mike Crapo released the following statement:â??In the speech this evening, the President clearly identified the correct priorities and direction for the country. He made it clear that we will not falter in protecting the American people in the war on terrorism. He understands the importance of proper policy for economic strength, and our nation has benefited from that over the last economic quarter. He eloquently pointed out that the tax relief provided in the last year has been beneficial not only to the nation, but to individuals and families. It is important that we continue to provide tax relief to our nationâ??s wage-earners. I agree with the Presidentâ??s observation that the American people are using their money far better than government would have. We need to make certain that tax relief is not transitory, but remains part of the governmentâ??s agenda.â??His promise to submit a budget to reduce the deficit and put us on a downward track was very wise, and as a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I look forward to working with him on that matter. We have an important task ahead of us to remain good stewards of taxpayer dollars, as we work to bring down the deficit and maintain the funds for the needed priorities for our nation.â??I commend the President for his very strong identification of the priorities and the direction our nation needs to go. He particularly noted the importance of education and job training. We must ensure that our nationâ??s students have access to the best education possible. The emphasis he placed on health care also reflects our nationâ??s concerns. Technology has changed the face of medicine, and we must be ready to meet that. Americans need to have access to affordable and appropriate medical care, and he outlined some of the most important ways we can do this.â??The President laid out an ambitious agenda for the remainder of the 108th Congress, and I look forward to the coming months as we work to improve the lives of Americans.â??# # #FOR INTERESTED MEDIA: A radio actuality is available by calling 1-800-545-1267. Press 327 at any time during or after the greeting and instructions. You can also access the actuality through the Internet at http://www.senate.gov/~src/radio.