WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s address to the joint session of Congress:

“President Obama speaks plainly about our nation’s economic and fiscal problems, but he also expresses hope and optimism about the future.
 
“While the challenges facing America today are daunting, I am reminded of the closing words from President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s undelivered address:

‘The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.  Let us move forward with strong and active faith.’

“It won’t be easy, but the President, Congress, and the American people can work together to build a better tomorrow.  We must preserve that American optimism, that strong and active faith, which will aid us in the days ahead.”

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Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO) serves as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee . For further information, please contact Rebecca Loving or Whitney Frost at 202-225-2876, or check Congressman Skelton’s website at http://www.house.gov/skelton.