Locals discuss the state of our union

Here in the Valley many locals are discussing Tuesday’s State of the Union address.

Some are saying they’ll tune in, others choosing not to get involved in politics.

When you ask people “how do you think our country is doing,” inevitably you’re going to get different answers.

And when you follow that with “how can we fix it,” well those opinions vary as well.

However there’s one thing everyone we spoke with can agree on.

“I’d like to see the political situation get along better, because they’re not getting along,” said Dian Hansen.

“I’d love to see more cooperation from the president’s side and Congress and see them work together. We’ve become to divisive and so polarized. I’d love to see more grace,” said Gordon Halverson from Washington.

On the subject of immigration, most people agree national security should be a priority.

“The government has to be careful with who they let into the country. I think they need to do good background checks. I don’t think you can let people in en masse, it’s dangerous,” Hansen said.

Others are worrying about the economy.

“I think the size of the federal government is too large and we’re eroding our individual rights. And I don’t think we can turn it around. I think the size of the deficit is part of that and the overreach of the government is our biggest problem,” said Jack Laird from Washington.

While the president hopes to keep the tone of his final State of the Union address optimistic, polls show much of the country feels the opposite.

But, here in the Valley, some people seem to share the president’s hopes.

“Hopefully we can have more peace in the world so we can focus on important things, rather than fighting with one another,” said Randy Williams.