WASHINGTON, D.C. – National League of Cities (NLC) CEO and Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony issued the following statement in response to President Biden’s State of the Union address:
“America’s cities, towns and villages are proud partners of Congress and the Biden Administration as we work together to tackle the challenges facing our communities. From investing in our infrastructure to rebuilding the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic, the local-federal partnership lays the groundwork for strengthening communities across the country.
Local leaders have celebrated the historic investments made through the American Rescue Plan Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act. These bills include direct investments to communities and new programs to help cities, towns and villages rebuild and recover. President Biden’s speech made clear he understands the importance of this partnership and the need for continued work to strengthen local economies, rebuild our infrastructure, combat the climate crisis, build up our workforce, address growing mental health and substance abuse challenges and more.
As the President said in his speech: ‘We have an obligation to make sure all people are safe.’ Tonight’s speech highlighted a crisis America’s local leaders see firsthand in their communities far too often – gun violence and police brutality. NLC is committed to giving local leaders the tools needed to deter violence in their neighborhoods and prevent deaths. We will continue to partner with the Biden Administration and Congress to support local action to transform public safety.”
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The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people across the country. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.