Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) stated, As the President delivers his fifth State of the Union address this evening, I again urge him to be forthright with the American people about the full cost of the war in Iraq and the need for a long-term commitment of U.S. troops. During my recent trip to Iraq and Afghanistan, I was again able to witness the courage and character of our brave troops and officials. However, I believe that it is essential that the President recognize that although the morale of our soldiers is high, the military is being stretched, with soldiers serving multiple tours, and recruitment efforts being strained.The threat of terrorism remains real, and it is essential that the President explain to the American people how we will rebuild Iraq and Afghanistan, and what the costs will be. The President must also address the recent elections in Palestine, and its impact on security in the Middle East.While our nation is dealing with many issues abroad, the President must also address some very difficult issues here at home. We need to work to bring the benefits of economic growth to middle income American families, who are dealing with increasing inflation levels and decreasing wages. The President must address the impact of record high energy costs forcing many families and seniors to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table.I expect the President to talk about fiscal discipline, but it is unfortunate that he is apt to ask for a series of tax cuts that will benefit only the wealthiest Americans, while leaving our nation with the largest budget deficit in our history.The President also will highlight his plans for health care. However, as we have seen with the recent implementation of his prescription drug program, the Administration did not have a plan, leaving thousands of seniors and low-income Americans behind once again. Like the war in Iraq, or the devastating consequences of Hurricane Katrina, the Administration has shown too often a lack of planning and preparation. It is time for the President to provide real strategies to help protect our nation, while at the same time ensuring that our citizens are not left behind.