WASHINGTON – President Obama’s State of the Union message Tuesday night drew a generally critical reaction from two area representatives, both Republicans.

Rep. Tom Marino (R-10):

"Unfortunately, the president’s words never seem to match his actions."

"Since taking office three years ago, the president has contributed more to the deterioration of this nation’s middle class than any other president."

"The things that matter most to the average American – good-paying jobs, maintaining a small business, owning a home, paying for health care and using a vehicle – are slipping beyond their reach."

"More people are dependent on the federal government than ever before."

"Sadly, this president’s words and actions are dividing, not uniting. He has become a master of the politics of envy and division."

Rep. Lou Barletta (R-11):

“The president’s speech does nothing to change the fact that his policies have not worked.

“With that being said, I hope we can work together to solve the issues we face. I think that’s a goal that all Americans share. I hope we can keep that in mind this year.”

“Since the president took office, more than 2 million Americans lost their jobs. The unemployment rate was 6.8 percent when he was elected, is now at 8.5 percent, and has been at or above 8.5 percent for almost three straight years – the longest stretch since the Great Depression.