For Release: Tuesday, January 28, 2003
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT BUSH'S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

Washington -- U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) issued the following statement in response to President Bush's State of the Union address tonight:

"President Bush outlined several interesting proposals to address our faltering economy and other important domestic issues, but the devil remains in the details. I am concerned that his economic stimulus plan is not balanced and at a cost of $674 billion over ten years continues the country on a path toward record deficits. The centerpiece of the proposal is the elimination of the taxation of stock dividends, which will do little to stimulate the economy in the short run. While the President advances some positive initiatives, such as increasing the child tax credit and providing accelerated marriage penalty tax relief, any legislation must help all Americans and jump-start the economy this year.

"The focus on Iraq in recent months has obscured other important issues, such as the state of our health care system. The President's proposals for Medicare are a boon to the insurance industry, and will weaken, not strengthen, the program. I will continue to push for a prescription drug benefit as part of the Medicare program, as well as sufficient funding to keep it vibrant into the future.

"In regard to Iraq, I agree with the President that Saddam Hussein must cooperate fully with the weapons inspectors and make a total commitment to disarmament. It is incumbent on the United States to seek all peaceful means to resolve this conflict, and I believe providing the inspectors with additional time is a reasonable step. I urge President Bush to continue seeking support from our allies abroad as this process continues."

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