WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Charlie Melancon (D-LA) made the following comments today after listening to President Bush's 2008 State of the Union Address:

"Tonight, I was pleased to hear the President restated his support for the bipartisan economic stimulus package developed in the House of Representatives. America's economy is slowing, and working families are struggling to make ends meet.  This bill, which the House will be voting on later this week, will offer lower and middle class families some relief, while also helping small businesses expand and create new jobs.  The stimulus package represents a compromise agreement between House Democrats, House Republicans, and the President for the good of our country, and I hope to see more cooperation like this in the future."

"I am also pleased the President recognized tonight what we in south Louisiana have long known: the Gulf Coast is on the rebound and, despite many setbacks and obstacles, is rebuilding stronger than ever before. He is right in observing that south Louisianians are a strong and resilient people, and we know our brightest days are yet to come."