CEI Comments on President Trump’s Joint-Session Address to Congress

On February 28, 2017, President Donald J. Trump addressed a joint session of Congress. His speech reviewed the new administration’s recent initiatives and announced ways in which the White House will work with Congress on legislative priorities going forward.

Competitive Enterprise Institute President Kent Lassman responded to President Trump’s address to Congress:

“Last night, the President reaffirmed his commitment to relieving the overwhelming regulatory burden that costs Americans nearly $1.9 trillion each year. However, the rhetoric in the remainder of his address lacked an understanding of some basic economic principles. Trade barriers, ‘Buy American’ mandates, regulated drug prices and trillion dollar infrastructure projects are a far cry from the policies that produce job creation and economic growth.”

See more from Kent here: Trump Must Collaborate and Persuade to Advance Regulatory Reform

CEI’s Marc Scribner also responded specifically to the President’s comments on infrastructure:

“Despite their repeated promises on infrastructure investment, politicians are the primary drivers of the problems facing U.S. infrastructure and will not be part of the solution until they reverse course and recognize the difference between costs and benefits.”

See more from Marc here: Trump’s Address a Mixed Bag on Transportation and Infrastructure