Statement by Foundation Chairman, Peter G. Peterson, on President Obama’s State of the Union Address
“To build a thriving economy with opportunity for all Americans, the President and Congress must take decisive action to address our long-term debt and deficits. An economy burdened by massive interest costs cannot grow, and the critical resources we need to invest in our future will simply not be there unless we get our fiscal house in order.
The nation can’t afford for our lawmakers to take a year off from fiscal reform, just because this is a political season. Many credible solutions exist, and both parties should pursue them together. There are several bipartisan plans that get the fiscal job done, with consideration of the fragile recovery, compassion for the most vulnerable, and with comprehensive tax reform that is both more fair and more competitive.
A plan that is implemented when the economy is stronger is not only essential for our economic and fiscal future, but would boost confidence today and help to stimulate the current economy.”
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Fiscal Outlook
Further Reading
7 Key Trends in Poverty in the United States
Thirteen percent of the U.S. population lives in poverty. Learn more about the demographic and regional variations in the poverty rate.
Quarterly Treasury Refunding Statement: Borrowing Up Year Over Year
Key highlights from the most recent Quarterly Refunding include an increase in anticipated borrowing of $158 billion compared to the same period in the previous year.
Budget Basics: Unemployment Insurance Explained
The Unemployment Insurance program is a key counter-cyclical tool to help stabilize the economy and speed recovery during downturns or crises.