Congressman Steve Daines released a statement in response to President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address on Feb. 12.

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“We all share the common goal of renewing and growing our economy,” Daines stated. “But the President’s vision for this country is one of bigger government and more spending, not the common sense Montana values and pro-growth solutions that our nation needs. Montanans deserve real solutions, not more political rhetoric. To grow our economy, to create jobs, to get our debt under control, we need common sense Montana solutions, not more of Washington’s failed ideas. Anything less is unfair to the next generation.”

To spur economic growth, Daines called for “a simplified, pro-growth tax code that provides American families and small businesses with certainty, not confusion, and encourages our small businesses to grow, invest, and create new jobs.”

Daines also expressed his concern that the President’s proposals failed to seriously address the debt crisis facing the country.

“We need to take serious steps to balance our budget,” Daines added. “Under President Obama, our nation’s debt continues to grow and grow. We must make smart decisions today that get our spending under control and protect the promises we’ve made to our seniors and veterans, while strengthening the future for the next generation.

Daines pushed back against the President’s energy proposals, calling instead for a “true all-of-the-above energy plan” that would encourage the development of both renewable and traditional energy resources. Daines also again called on the President to move for the approval of the Keystone XL pipeline.

“In Montana, we have abundant natural resources — from wind and water, to coal and natural gas. We must encourage the responsible development of these resources, not put up senseless barriers that block the creation of good-paying jobs and hinder our path to energy independence.”

Daines also applauded the recent agreement between the Crow Tribe and Cloud Peak Energy to develop coal reserves on the Crow Reservation. Daines commended Crow Tribe Chairman Darrin Old Coyote, who attended the State of the Union address as Daines’ guest of honor, for his leadership with the agreement.

“The recent agreement between the Crow Tribe and Cloud Peak Energy is a great example of how we can grow the economy and create good-paying jobs through the development of our state’s resources. I’m excited about the potential that this partnership holds, and I’m also honored that Crow Tribal Chairman Darrin Old Coyote, who has shown tremendous leadership with this agreement, joined me this evening in Washington, D.C. for tonight’s State of the Union Address.”

Daines also responded to the President’s proposed firearms restrictions, stating: “I remain committed to protecting Montanans’ right to keep and bear arms, and I will continue fighting against any efforts that infringe upon Montanans’ Second Amendment rights.”

Republican Rep. Steve Daines is Montana’s lone member of the U.S. House of Representatives.