The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“THE TRUE STATE OF OUR UNION” mentioning the Department of Interior was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H1379 on Feb. 6, 2019.
The Department oversees more than 500 million acres of land. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the department has contributed to a growing water crisis and holds many lands which could be better managed.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
THE TRUE STATE OF OUR UNION
(Mr. LEVIN of California asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. LEVIN of California. Madam Speaker, last night we heard from a President who is clearly out of touch with the true state of our union. His rhetoric of compromise failed to meet the reality of the highly divisive policies he offered.
The President failed to acknowledge that his tax scam has unfairly benefited big corporations, CEOs, and the wealthiest Americans at the expense of working people.
He failed to acknowledge the severe shortcomings of his own administration when it comes to middle class families.
He failed to acknowledge that his administration has ripped away protections for those with preexisting conditions.
The President continued to use harmful rhetoric toward immigrants and declined to acknowledge that his anti-immigrant agenda has torn families apart, put kids in cages, and turned away those seeking asylum and safety.
The President also failed to address one of the biggest crises we face, and that is the impact of climate change on our planet. We are witnessing more intense storms and stronger wildfires as a result of climate change, but instead of acknowledging those facts, the President denied climate science, nominated fossil fuel lobbyists to run the EPA and Department of Interior, and has undone critical environmental protection.
We need a comprehensive agenda to combat climate change and a monumental shift to renewable energy, electric vehicles, and more energy-efficient buildings.
While the President continues to deny science and common sense, I will continue to work with my colleagues on a Green New Deal to protect our planet for future generations.
While the President's State of the Union address was out of touch, I welcome him to join Democrats in working For The People to lower health care costs, end the culture of corruption in Washington, effectively combat climate change, and serve the middle class.
____________________
