NALEO Responds to President Joseph R. Biden’s2023 State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) today released a statement from Chief Executive Officer Arturo Vargas following President Joseph R. Biden’s State of the Union address: “As the country continues to face ongoing challenges at the beginning of the president’s third year in office, there is still work to be done for our communities to feel confident in an economy and nation that provides opportunity for Latinos and all Americans to thrive and prosper. “Tonight, the president outlined his vision of progress as the country continues recovering from one of the most tumultuous times in our history. These hardships will require us to come together so that we may emerge stronger than before. We must also listen to the voices most directly affected by the challenges we face, including those of Latino policymakers. We believe no matter what issues we disagree on, there is more that can unite us behind common goals. No one party has a monopoly on good ideas, which is why we commend President Biden’s call for our leaders to work together to solve our nation’s toughest issues. “We applaud our leaders for the work they have done in a culture of collaboration that crosses party lines and delivers for the American people. Now more than ever, NALEO urges both parties to continue working together to pass additional legislation that further leads us to a path of recovery and safeguards our democracy. “Latinos and communities of color are disproportionately affected by many challenges we face as a nation. Like all Americans, Latinos want to succeed, thrive, and have their voices heard. In 2020, Latinos showed up to the polls in record numbers, with inflation and the high cost of living as their top-of-mind concerns. Latino issues are American issues. Our elected officials must deliver on their promises and see that no one is left behind. “Latino elected and appointed officials continue to work at the forefront of many of the challenges we all face, including the humanitarian crisis at the border that affects communities across the country. Congress must continue working on broader immigration reform that maintains our security, uses sound and humane enforcement approaches, and preserves America’s promise of opportunity for those who wish to call this nation their home. “America’s well-being and future prosperity depend on the Latino community’s success. This is why Congress and the president must continue strengthening our economy and fortifying our democracy. As with the past 46 years, NALEO stands ready to work alongside the Biden administration, the 118th Congress, and all elected officials nationwide to achieve these goals and continue delivering on our promise of increasing Latino political participation in the United States.”