WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kan., today released the following statement regarding the president’s State of the Union address:

“Following every State of the Union address, I’ve always zeroed in on, ‘did the president talk about things that matter to rural America, things that matter to Kansans?’ I appreciated the president’s comments about issues that have an impact on the everyday lives of the American people, such as making much-needed updates to our infrastructure, good-paying jobs, caring for our veterans and putting our national security first.

“I was pleased to hear the president emphasize giving veterans real Choice in their health care decisions. We must continue working to make certain our heroes have greater access to the care they deserve and hold the VA accountable.

“I also remain committed to conveying to the administration that Kansas farmers, ranchers and manufacturers need certainty, rather than the threat of a NAFTA withdrawal. I will urge the president to renegotiate and modernize NAFTA to benefit our farmers, ranchers and manufacturers.

“Additionally, I was encouraged to hear the president speak about a number of important national security priorities and reiterate his commitment to keeping Americans safe from terrorists, including by keeping enemy combatants captured on the battlefield detained at GITMO.”‎