Several members of Congress and quite a few state and local politicians are utilizing Twitter, a Web application that broadcasts small (140 character) bits of information. Here’s a sampling of what some politicians had to say before, during and after Pres. Barack Obama’s first State of the Union address.
U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (Florida) — “On the House floor. Awaiting State of the Union speech. We need positive solutions. Economy keeps tanking. 2 much borrowing and spending.”
U.S. Rep. Mary Fallin (Oklahoma) — “Waiting to hear what the President has to say on the economy. Hopefully he talks about REAL fiscal responsibility and addresses the deficit”
U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris (Washington) — “On the House floor for Pres Obama’s historic speech to Congress. I have the honor of escorting him. If you’re watching, I’m wearing white.”
U.S. Rep. Bob Inglis (South Carolina) — “Speaker just gaveled to order. Senate entering now. It’s crowded on Democratic side. Not so much on R side. Something about 255 D to 178R!”
RPI Chairman Matt Strawn — “If “entrepreneurs keep this country running,” as obama said, then let them create jobs and get the gov’t out of the way”
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley — “Concentrate on what Obama said abt parental invovment in kids education. I’m going to help him. Wout spending one penny that will do good”
U.S. Rep. Tom Latham — “I applaud the president’s commitment to bipartisanship. But speeches & rhetoric mean little if congressional leaders don’t share that spirit”
U.S. Rep. John Culbertson (Texas) — “Americans are not quitters – Amen – what a great story – as well as the story of the selfless banker – very encouraging and inspiring”
U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (Virginia) — “I echo him in honoring our men and women in uniform and doing eveything in helping them with their healthcare needs”
U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (Oregon) — “Best line: ‘For 7 years we have been at war. No longer will we hide its price.’”
U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd (Connecticut) — “These are difficult economic times for many, but with the leadership and vision that President Obama displayed tonight we can be confident that America will emerge from this crisis stronger.”
U.S. Rep. George Radanovich (California) — “Did not like to hear Obama mention GHG cap and trade. Our economy cannot afford such a disastrous idea”
U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan (New Mexico) — “The President was inspiring tonight. Education, healthcare, and energy were key tonight, I look forward to working with the President.”
U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill (Missouri) — “Great speech. Right tone.Right message of bold action and budget restraint. My favorite line: ‘We are not quitters.’”
U.S. Rep. Steve Israel (New York) — “Great speech by President. Had nice but brief chat with him when he concluded. Message from my daughter: ‘I just say you on TV!’”
U.S. Rep. Jared Polis (Colorado) — “wow, great speech! and yes I got his signature. Did a quick interview for CBS after and am now on my way home for the night”
