Washington — Congressman Mike Kelly, R-3rd, said the federal government needs to cut spending and not just freeze it as President Obama urged Tuesday night in his State of the Union speech.

Here is what Kelly, who is from Butler, said in reaction to Obama’s speech.

In a news release, Kelly said, “While it’s encouraging that President Obama thinks we need to get serious about our national debt, it’s downright troubling that he thinks a spending freeze at 2010 levels will do the trick.

“We are in debt up to our eyeballs, and if we don’t get a grip on the runaway spending in Washington, we will squander our children’s chance at the American dream.

“As we face crippling debt and historically high unemployment rates, we need decisive leadership and we need action. There’s been too much debate in this town about whether we need to make budget cuts with a scalpel or a hatchet. I say bring out the chainsaws.