Rangel Says Small Business Tax Incentives Will Help Middle-Income Earners

"In his State of the Union Address tonight, President Obama provided the American people with hope that our nation is headed in the right direction. He presented a plan that will rebuild our country's foundation to sustain every American rather than just a wealthy few. By focusing on American manufacturing, energy dependence, skills for American workers and our country's core values he framed our Democratic vision that will guide current and future generations on the road to rebuilding the American Dream.

President Obama's address comes at a pivotal time for the American Middle-Class. His call for tax reform in which everyone pays their fair share must be answered. We cannot build a solid economy unless the responsibility is shared by everyone. Giving tax incentives to small businesses and manufactures that keep jobs in America and hire American workers rather than a handful of corporations and billionaires will pump life back into our hard working middle-class who is the backbone of our nation.

President Obama also turned a new page for American energy by outlining an economy fueled by homegrown and alternative energy sources free from foreign dependence. These efforts will create jobs powered by American workers and ingenuity. To accomplish this, the President reaffirmed my belief that we must make sure our students and workers get the education and training they need so that we have a workforce ready for the challenges of the 21st century.

I commend President Obama's leadership. His call for fairness for all and responsibility from all is crucial for our nation's future. I look forward to working with my Colleagues in Congress to support President Obama's blueprint. This is a time when we need to join together -- it's not about being a Democrat or a Republican -- it's about every American working as one nation to rebuild a lasting economy and a better future for all."