Last night, President Obama delivered his first State-of-the-Union address since being reelected last November. In his speech, the President began by focusing on deficit reduction and called on lawmakers to avoid sequestration through a combination of entitlement and tax reforms. The President also called for programs and reforms to promote economic growth and support middle-class families, including an expansion of manufacturing hubs, infrastructure investments to repair existing roads and bridges, changes to help more homeowners refinance their mortgages, and an increase in the federal minimum wage. On energy and the environment, he proposed market-based solutions to climate change and incentives for greater energy efficient homes and businesses. Regarding education policy, the President made early-childhood education a priority and pledged to work with states to ensure every child has the opportunity to attend a high-quality preschool. He also spoke about the need for high-tech focused high schools and called on lawmakers to link federal aid for higher education to the affordability and value of institutions. The President also emphasized the need for comprehensive immigration reform, reforms to make voting easier, and legislation to reduce gun violence. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) delivered the Republican response to the President’s State of the Union address. His speech focused on the need to grow the economy by simplifying the tax code, lowering marginal tax rates, and limiting government spending and regulation. Sen. Rubio also discussed immigration reform and ensuring the nation’s education system is preparing students for the workforce.

Link: State of the Union Remarks