'Half truths': Costa calls out Trump's claims on immigration following State of the Union
WASHINGTON, DC. (KSEE/KGPE) – In what was the longest State of the Union address in modern history, President Donald Trump began by focusing on immigration.
“When I last spoke in this chamber 12 months ago, I had just inherited a nation in crisis, with a stagnant economy, inflation at record levels, a wide-open border,” Trump said.
Democrat Jim Costa said he believes the president’s comments on the issue only tell part of the story.
“I think his comments on immigration were half-truths. Certainly, the border is much more peaceful than it had been previously,” Costa said.
Costa added that he thinks the president deserves credit on that part of the issue.
“I think he promised that he would do that, and he’s done that,” Costa said.
However, Costa said he believes the president should focus on immigration reform just as much as he has been focusing on border security.
“I think he missed an opportunity here, too. And I think Congress would come together if he were to offer an effort to provide immigration reform,” he added.
The president also focused on affordability, which is likely to become a crucial part of the GOP’s agenda as the midterms approach.
“The price of eggs is down 60%. The cost of chicken, butter, fruit, hotels, automobiles, and rent is lower today than when I took office, and even beef is starting to come down,” Trump said.
“I don’t think he convinced a lot of people tonight that the economy is better and that inflation is under control,” Costa said.
The president also mentioned the Golden State a few times during his speech. At one point, even looking ahead to the summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
“Los Angeles is going to be safe. Just like Washington, DC is one of the safest cities in the country,” he said.
South Valley Republican Congressman Vince Fong released a statement in support of the president following his State of the Union address.
"After four years of decline at the hands of the Biden-Harris Administration, the American Dream is within reach once again with families across the country already seeing real results from policies that put our economy, workers, and safety first. Under President Trump’s leadership these past 13 months, we have taken decisive action to tame inflation, secure our borders, boost wages, grow jobs, unleash American energy, restore peace through strength, and enact historic tax cuts for families and businesses.
Our Central Valley deserves relief and opportunity, and with President Trump in office that is what they are seeing. More money in their pockets. A stronger economy. Safer cities. A proud and confident America once again leading on the world stage.
In Congress, I will continue to build off the President’s pro-growth reforms and return prosperity to communities once overlooked as we fight to restore affordability.
Tonight’s speech was a reminder of how great America is and all that we have accomplished together as a nation. There is still much work to be done, but the state of our Union is undoubtedly strong.”
- Congressman Vince Fong