“Tonight, the President tried to claim that the economy is booming but more American families are saying they are worse off financially. Gas has gone up over a dollar since he took office; December is the 21^st straight month that real wages are negative; households are expected to pay the highest energy costs in 15 years this winter; disposable income fell by $1 trillion in 20022-the second largest drop ever with the Great Depression being first; and credit card debt is up 18.5 percent since last year.

“Republicans will focus on energy independence by cutting the permitting process time in half, strengthening our supply chain, and ending dependence on other countries to supply our energy needs. 

“Personally, I am continuing my commitment to strengthen our armed forces, and this year I am focusing on the quality of life for those protecting our country by leading a task panel to do just that. We will ensure our agricultural community is prepared to feed America and ensure we have the products we need. I am working reduce crime and protect public safety by supporting law enforcement and addressing recuring and retention issues. Finally, I will work with my colleagues to stop the flow of fentanyl and human trafficking at the border.”

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