Diaz-Balart: National Security, Strong Economy, Freedom Remain Priority for President

WASHINGTON—Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) today issued the following statement regarding the State of the Union address:

“Tonight President Bush will deliver his final State of the Union Address, once again addressing the issues most important to Americans. It is clear that national security, strengthening our economy and ensuring freedom and democracy remain priorities for the President.

“He will stress the importance of passing an economic stimulus package that will benefit American taxpayers and our nation’s economy and updating the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which is critical for our national security.

“Another issue that will be clear in his address is the importance of passing Free Trade Agreements with Colombia and Panama. I am a strong supporter of free trade with free and democratic nations. Not only does it strengthen our allies in the region, but also it creates jobs and economic opportunities for many in the U.S.

“I am also glad to see that President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush have once again demonstrated their solidarity with the Cuban people by inviting Blanca Gonzalez to the State of the Union Address. She is the mother of Normando Hernandez Gonzalez, a political prisoner suffering in Castro’s tropical gulag. President Bush continues to be the best friend of the cause of freedom.”