January 15, 2008

Kansas Governor Sebelius To Deliver Democratic Address On State Of The Union; Texas State Senator Van De Putte To Deliver Spanish-Language Address

Washington, D.C.—Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced today that Governor Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas will deliver the Democratic Address on the State of the Union following the President’s speech to Congress on Monday, January 28.  Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, immediate past president of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), will deliver the Spanish language address.

Governor Sebelius will deliver her speech from the Governor’s residence in Topeka, Kansas.
 
“Governor Sebelius is a forward-thinking, solutions-oriented Democratic leader, who has worked in a bipartisan way to create jobs, grow the economy, make historic investments in education, and make college more affordable” Reid and Pelosi said.  “Her record of accomplishment in Kansas is evidence of what can be achieved when leaders reach across the aisle on behalf of all Americans.  Governor Sebelius epitomizes the leadership that is moving America in a New Direction.”
 
Governor Sebelius said: “These are extraordinarily challenging times, both at home and abroad.  To meet those challenges, the American people expect their leaders to resolve their differences and put partisanship on the back-burner.  They demand leadership focused squarely on solving our problems, making the most of our opportunities, and moving America forward.  That is exactly the kind of leadership we’ve demonstrated in Kansas, and I am honored to share that example with the American people in response to the President’s State of the Union message.”
 
Reid and Pelosi praised State Senator Van de Putte as an effective state and national leader. “As the first Latina to head NCSL and chair her caucus in the Texas Senate, Senator Van de Putte has demonstrated tremendous leadership and a commitment to improving the lives of all Americans,” Reid and Pelosi said. “As a national Hispanic leader for nearly 20 years, she has a proven record of advocating for Latino families.  Senator Van de Putte is uniquely positioned to articulate the Democrats’ leadership on issues affecting the Hispanic community.”
 
Senator Van de Putte said:  “Latinos in this country share all Americans’ anxiety about the direction of our nation.  We want responsive government and committed leaders.  We want opportunities for our communities to grow and prosper.  We want a brighter future for our children.  I am especially honored to be able to share these sentiments in response to our President's State of the Union Address.”

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