Miss. republicans support Bush’s goals
Published Tuesday, January 29, 2008
JACKSON (AP) — Two Republican members of Mississippi’s congressional delegation lauded President Bush following Monday’s State of the Union address and expressed hope Democrats in Congress will support his priorities.
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, who has been in the Senate for a week after being appointed to replace former Sen. Trent Lott, hailed Bush for his plan to boost the United State’s lagging economy.
‘‘It was encouraging to see the president place such an emphasis on bringing Congress together to pass legislation quickly to give our economy a boost,’’ Wicker said. ‘‘While the fundamentals of our economy remain strong, it is important that we provide immediate assistance to workers and families who are struggling with high energy costs and a softening housing market.’’
Outgoing U.S. Rep. Chip Pickering said Mississippi will benefit from Bush’s energy plan.
‘‘Mississippi is well positioned to answer President Bush’s call to increase our nation’s energy security,’’ Pickering said. ‘‘From agricultural and timber biomass products and research at Mississippi State, to additional nuclear capacity at Grand Gulf, to clean-coal technology in Natchez and Kemper County, to new oil reclamation processes, Mississippi’s private and public investment in energy reliance is positioning us to be a leader for our nation’s future.’’
Wicker said Congress also should trust Bush’s military goals after recent success in Iraq.
‘‘Last year, the president made the difficult decision to send more troops to Iraq to help stop rising levels of violence,’’ Wicker said. ‘‘With violence in Iraq now falling dramatically and political reconciliation between the Iraqis taking hold, it is clear the president’s strategy worked.’’