Area politicians weigh in on Obama's address

Shortly after President Barack Obama finished his third State of the Union address Tuesday evening, lawmakers with ties to the area offered their perspectives on the talk. Democrats agree Obama was dynamic, inspirational and scored points on addressing the need to grow the nation's middle class. One area Republican agreed with the president's rhetoric but believes his policies and actions don't reflect his words. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the overall reactions to the address were largely consistent with party lines. However, Obama did receive respect from one Democratic lawmaker who at times has been vocal in his criticism of the nation's leader. "(Obama) showed he is aware of the everyday struggles of real people and that he is committed to building the middle class and preserving the American dream for all people," McNerney said in a news release. Rep. John Garamendi, D-Walnut Grove, said the president's discussion on national defense could be a boon for Northern California. "He stressed the need for an agile defense network," Garamendi said. "Travis Air Force Base can provide mobility, and Beale Air Force Base is reconnaissance," he said. Beale Air Force Base, near Marysville, is home to unmanned drone aircraft and the 9th Reconnaissance Wing, and Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield hosts the 60th and 349th Air Mobility Wing.