Livingston County Democrats React to State of the Union Address

The Livingston County Democrats were one of hundreds of groups across the nation that held watch parties to tune into President Barack Obama's State of the Union Address Tuesday night.

Kathy Carney of Green Oak Township, an active member of the political group, said about 35 people attended the party at the Democrats' headquarters on Grand River Rd. in Brighton.

"Everybody was really attentive," she said. "I think he (Obama) did a marvelous job explaining all the different aspects of what's going on in the United States right now and how important it is for everyone to work together."

Carney said that Obama's statement, "Our nation is great because we built it together," really hit home with her.

"I feel that our congress has been very dysfunctional," she said. "I think he nailed it when he said that."

Carney said that she was happy overall with everything that Obama said.

"He covered everything really well." she said. "One of the points that I liked best is that he talked about regulations, maybe not in so many words -- he didn't say the word regulations, but he was talking about them. We need regulations because not everyone does the right thing. Lots of times people or entities will say they will do the right thing, but they don't. And the citizens need protections. And I think regulations protect the citizens of our country. So I don't think we need less regulations, I think we need smart regulations."

Most Livingston County Republicans were unavailable for comment, as many of them attended an Americans for Prosperity and RetakeOurGov National School of Choice Week Live Feed and Panel at during the president's address.

In the Republican response, Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels said the Obama administration has been divisive.

The Detroit News reported U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, agreeing with that response by saying he was disappointed in the speech.

"He really tried to divide America for political gain tonight," Rogers told The Detroit News. "People are hurting. They are looking for jobs." Rogers argued there are places where Democrats and Republicans can "work together and get things done."