Spectrum News 1 had an opportunity to get Congressman Bob Latta’s (R-05) reaction to President Trump’s State of the Union Address on Tuesday night. (Watch the full interview in the video above)
Latta said he was happy that the president highlighted some achievements made in the past 18 months: tax reform, more jobs created, and the unemployment rate lowered.
Latta also said it was good that Trump pointed out the need to do more with health care and taking care of people with pre-existing conditions.
After the president spoke about the opioid crisis, Latta noted that Ohio is one of the top states impacted. He said that the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on which he serves, has passed over 60 pieces of legislation to address the crisis.
Latta also said border security is a necessity. He said it’s essential to have an orderly process for immigration and to prevent drugs, gangs and terrorists from coming into the country. He said he believes a physical barrier is needed, as well as other components such as more agents and technology.
With another partial government shutdown less than 10 days away, Latta said he feels the president has been willing to negotiate, but that the Democrats won’t give anything on their end. He said he hopes both sides can negotiate and come together.
