Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s State of the Union address:

“President Obama’s remarks fail to take into account current political and economic realities. The American people widely repudiated this president’s approach last November and sent a clear message they expect him to work with Congress in reining in federal spending and holding Washington accountable. Unfortunately, the president seemed to indicate he plans on pursuing his far left agenda despite what the American people desire and despite what the Constitution allows. I think many Tennesseans were left with the impression President Obama cares more about the legacy of his presidency than the legacy of our country. For example, under the White House’s leadership we have seen our national debt rise to more than $18 trillion. Yet rather than acknowledge this fiscal reality, the president chose to disingenuously suggest we have the financial capacity to create new government programs costing tens of billions of dollars. Empty promises and grandiose rhetoric may appeal to his core group of supporters, but it is certainly not an honest assessment of the state of the union.”