“To say our party and many McKean County people are ecstatic would be an understatement.”
Such are the words of McKean County Republican Party Chairwoman Stacy Wallace following Friday’s inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States of America.
Wallace was one of multiple local political leaders to share their thoughts on the historic event.
She said the local organization is looking forward to the restoration of constitutional rights, less and smarter spending and continued economic growth.
“As an individual who led the Trump campaign for McKean County I want very deeply for my Democratic friends’ convictions to be considered as well,” she said. “Many of them I know and respect on many levels and if they have concerns, it causes me to pause. Many of them are concerned about President Trump’s rhetoric and how it may impact world relations.”
People recognize that, Trump, as a businessman, could have ideas that could improve the economy; however, they want to him resonate with the poorest and the weakest individuals, Wallace said.
“If he cannot do this, may he surround himself with people who can, such as Dr. Ben Carson [former 2016 presidential nominee and U.S. Housing and Urban Development secretary nominee],” she said. “I hope because President Trump truly is different that he will hear their voices and work toward country and world unity. Here is to counting on him to be humble, seek justice for all and embrace kindness.”
On the federal level, U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Pa., called Friday’s inauguration event an historic occasion, adding that the peaceful transfer of power defines the country.
“Each President is unique and brings his own strengths to the job,” he said in a prepared statement. “What I’ve seen from Mr. Trump so far is that he knows what it takes to be a job creator. The U.S. has one of the most punitive tax codes in the world and numerous over-reaching regulations. As a businessman, he understands the need to change the status quo and boost our economy. Mr. Trump signs paychecks, he knows the challenges are barriers to economic growth and I look forward to seeing him work with Congress to get that done.”
U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., also shared some sentiments on Trump’s big day.
“I hope the sight of the three branches of our government, both parties, standing together will teach them — and remind us all — that we were sent here to do the people’s work, to solve the problems we face, and to leave to our children a stronger, safer, more prosperous nation,” he said. “On a number of issues, President Trump and I agree — the need for tax reform, regulatory roll back, and a strong American leadership role in the world. I am enthusiastically looking forward to working with the new president and colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make major progress on these and other important issues.”
Via Twitter, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., congratulated Trump on becoming the president and expressed appreciation to former President Barack Obama for his service.
