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31.Strengthening the American Education System September 24, 2011
Over the last few weeks, I’ve been making the case that we need to act now on the American Jobs Act, so we can put folks back to work and start building an economy that lasts into the future.Education is an eential part of this economic agenda.It is an undeniable fact that countries who out-educate us today will out-compete us tomorrow.Businees will hire wherever the highly-skilled, highly-trained workers are located.But today, our students are sliding against their peers around the globe.Today, our kids trail too many other countries in math, science, and reading.As many as a quarter of our students aren’t even finishing high school.And we’ve fallen to 16th in the proportion of our young people with a college degree, even though we know that sixty percent of new jobs in the coming decade will require more than a high school diploma.What this means is that if we’re serious about building an economy that lasts – an economy in which hard work pays off with the opportunity for solid middle cla jobs – we had better be serious about education.We have to pick up our game and raise our standards.As a nation, we have an obligation to make sure that all children have the resources they need to learn – quality schools, good teachers, the latest textbooks and the right technology.That’s why the jobs bill I sent to Congre would put tens of thousands of teachers back to work acro the country, and modernize at least 35,000 schools.And Congre should pa that bill right now.But money alone won’t solve our education problems.We also need reform.We need to make sure that every claroom is a place of high expectations and high performance.That’s been our vision since taking office.And that’s why instead of just pouring money into a system that’s not working, we launched a competition called Race to the Top.To all fifty states, we said, “If you show us the most innovative plans to improve teacher quality and student achievement, we’ll show you the money.”
For le than one percent of what we spend on education each year, Race to the Top has led states acro the country to raise their standards for teaching and learning.These standards were developed, not by Washington, but by Republican and Democratic governors throughout the country.And since then, we have seen what’s poible when reform isn’t just a top-down mandate, but the work of local teachers and principals;school boards and communities.That’s why in my State of the Union addre this year, I said that Congre should reform the No Child Left Behind law based on the same principles that have guided Race to the Top.While the goals behind No Child Left Behind were admirable, experience has taught us that the law has some serious flaws that are hurting our children instead of helping them.Teachers are being forced to teach to a test, while subjects like history and science are being squeezed out.And in order to avoid having their schools labeled as failures, some states lowered their standards in a race to the bottom.These problems have been obvious to parents and educators all over this country for years.But for years, Congre has failed to fix them.So now, I will.Our kids only get one shot at a decent education.And they can’t afford to wait any longer.Yesterday, I announced that we’ll be giving states more flexibility to meet high standards for teaching and learning.It’s time for us to let states, schools and teachers come up with innovative ways to give our children the skills they need to compete for the jobs of the future.This will make a huge difference in the lives of students all acro the country.Yesterday, I was with Ricky Hall, the principal of a school in Worcester, Maachusetts.Every single student who graduated from Ricci’s school in the last three years went on to college.But because they didn’t meet the standards of No Child Left Behind, Ricci’s school was labeled as failing last year.That will change because of what we did yesterday.From now on, we’ll be able to encourage the progre at schools like Ricci’s.From now on, people like John Becker, who teaches at one of the highest-performing middle schools in D.C., will be able to focus on teaching his 4th graders math in a way that improves their performance instead of just teaching to a test.Superintendents like David Estrop from Ohio will be able to focus on improving teaching and learning in his district instead of spending all his time on bureaucratic mandates from Washington that don’t get results.This isn’t just the right thing to do for our kids – it’s the right thing to do for our country, and our future.It is time to put our teachers back on the job.It is time to rebuild and modernize our schools.And it is time to raise our standards, up our game, and do everything it takes to prepare our children succeed in the global economy.Now is the time to once again make our education system the envy of the world.Thanks for listening.32.Paing the American Jobs Act September 17, 2011
I’ve spent some time lately traveling the country and talking with folks outside of Washington.And the number one iue for the people I meet is how we can get back to a place where we’re creating good, middle-cla jobs that pay well and offer some security.That’s the idea behind the American Jobs Act.It’s a jobs bill that does two simple things: put more people back to work, and more money back in the pockets of people who are working.This jobs bill puts construction workers back to work rebuilding our roads and bridges and modernizing our schools.This jobs bill puts teachers back in the claroom, and keeps cops and firefighters on our streets.This jobs bill gives tax credits to companies that hire our veterans, because if you sign up to fight for our country, the last thing you should have to do is fight for a job when you come home.This jobs bill connects the long-term unemployed to temporary work to keep their skills sharp while they look for a job, and it gives hundreds of thousands of young people the hope of a job next summer.This jobs bill cuts taxes for every small busine owner in America.It cuts them even more for small busine owners that hire new workers and raise workers’ salaries.And it cuts taxes for every working family in America so that you’ll have more money in your pockets, and businees know they’ll have customers to buy what they sell.That’s the American Jobs Act, and you can check it out for yourself on WhiteHouse.gov.It will create new jobs.It will cut taxes for every worker and small busine in the country.And it will not add to the deficit.It will be paid for.On Monday, I’ll lay out my plan for how we’ll do that – how we’ll pay for this plan and pay down our debt by following some basic principles: making sure we live within our means and asking everyone to pay their fair share.But right now, we’ve got to get Congre to pa this jobs bill.Everything in the American Jobs Act is the kind of idea that’s been supported by Democrats and Republicans before.And if they’re ideas you agree with, too, every one of you can help make it happen by telling your congreperson to pa this jobs bill right away.I know some of them would rather wait another year to wage another election than work together right now.But most Americans don’t have the luxury of waiting.It was three years ago this week that a financial crisis on Wall Street made things much more difficult for working folks on Main Street.And too many are still hurting as a result.So the time for action is now.No more games or gridlock.No more division or delay.It’s time for the people you sent to Washington to put country before party – to stop worrying so much about their jobs and start worrying more about yours.It’s time to get to work and show the world once again why the United States of America remains the greatest nation on Earth.Thank you.33.Coming Together as One Nation to Remember
September 10, 2011
This weekend, we’re coming together, as one nation, to mark the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.We’re remembering the lives we lost—nearly 3,000 innocent men, women and children.We’re reaffirming our commitment to always keep faith with their families.We’re honoring the heroism of first responders who risked their lives—and gave their lives—to save others.And we’re giving thanks to all who serve on our behalf, especially our troops and military families—our extraordinary 9/11 Generation.At the same time, even as we reflect on a difficult decade, we must look forward, to the future we will build together.That includes staying strong and confident in the face of any threat.And thanks to the tirele efforts of our military personnel and our intelligence, law enforcement and homeland security profeionals—there should be no doubt.Today, America is stronger and al Qaeda is on the path to defeat.We’ve taken the fight to al Qaeda like never before.Over the past two and a half years, more senior al Qaeda leaders have been eliminated than at any time since 9/11.And thanks to the remarkable courage and precision of our forces, we finally delivered justice to Osama bin Laden.We’ve strengthened the partnerships and tools we need to prevail in this war against al Qaeda—working closer with allies and partners;reforming intelligence to better detect and disrupt plots;investing in our Special Forces so terrorists have no safe haven.We’re constantly working to improve the security of our homeland as well—at our airports, ports and borders;enhancing aviation security and screening;increasing support for our first responders;and working closer than ever with states, cities and communities.A decade after 9/11, it’s clear for all the world to see—the terrorists who attacked us that September morning are no match for the character of our people, the resilience of our nation, or the endurance of our values.They wanted to terrorize us, but, as Americans, we refuse to live in fear.Yes we face a determined foe, and make no mistake—they will keep trying to hit us again.But as we are showing again this weekend, we remain vigilant.We’re doing everything in our power to protect our people.And no matter what comes our way, as a resilient nation, we will carry on.They wanted to draw us in to endle wars, sapping our strength and confidence as a nation.But even as we put relentle preure on al Qaeda, we’re ending the war in Iraq and beginning to bring our troops home from Afghanistan.Because after a hard decade of war, it is time for nation building here at home.They wanted to deprive us of the unity that defines us as a people.But we will not succumb to division or suspicion.We are Americans, and we are stronger and safer when we stay true to the values, freedoms and diversity that make us unique among nations.And they wanted to undermine our place in the world.But a decade later, we’ve shown that America doesn’t hunker down and hide behind walls of mistrust.We’ve forged new partnerships with nations around the world to meet the global challenges that no nation can face alone.And acro the Middle East and North Africa a new generation of citizens is showing that the future belongs to those that want to build, not destroy.Ten years ago, ordinary Americans showed us the true meaning of courage when they rushed up those stairwells, into those flames, into that cockpit.In the decade since, a new generation has stepped forward to serve and keep us safe.In their memory, in their name, we will never waver.We will protect the country we love and pa it safer, stronger and more prosperous to the next generation.34.Time to Act on the Transportation Bill September 3, 2011
At the end of September, if Congre doesn’t act, funding for our roads and bridges will expire.This would put a stop to highway construction, bridge repair, ma transit systems and other important projects that keep our country moving quickly and safely.And it would affect thousands of construction workers and their families who depend on the jobs created by these projects to make ends meet.Usually, renewing this transportation bill is a no-brainer.In fact, Congre has renewed it seven times over the last two years.But thanks to political posturing in Washington, they haven’t been able to extend it this time – and the clock is running out.Allowing this bill to expire would be a disaster for our infrastructure and our economy.Right away, over 4,000 workers would be furloughed without pay.If it’s delayed for just 10 days, we will lose nearly $1 billion in highway funding that we can never get back.And if we wait even longer, almost 1 million workers could be in danger of losing their jobs over the next year.Those are serious consequences, and the pain will be felt all acro the country.In Virginia, 19,000 jobs are at risk.In Minnesota, more than 12,000.And in Florida, over 35,000 people could be out of work if Congre doesn’t act.That makes no sense – and it’s completely avoidable.There’s no reason to put more jobs at risk in an industry that has been one of the hardest-hit in this receion.There’s no reason to cut off funding for transportation projects at a time when so many of our roads are congested;so many of our bridges are in need of repair;and so many businees are feeling the cost of delays.This isn’t a Democratic or a Republican iue – it’s an American iue.That’s why, last week, I was joined at the White House by representatives from the AFL-CIO and the Chamber of Commerce – two groups who don’t always see eye-to-eye, but who agree that it’s critically important for our economy that Congre act now.That’s also why 128 mayors from both parties wrote to Congre asking them to come together and pa a clean extension.These are the local leaders who are on the ground every day, and who know what would happen to their communities if Congre fails to act.So I’m calling on Congre, as soon as they come back, to pa a clean extension of the transportation bill to keep workers on the job, keep critical projects moving forward, and to give folks a sense of security.There’s a lot of talk in Washington these days about creating jobs.But it doesn’t help when those same folks turn around and risk losing hundreds of thousands of jobs just because of political gamesmanship.We need to pa this transportation bill and put people to work rebuilding America.We need to put our differences aside and do the right thing for our economy.And now is the time to act.35.Coming Together to Remember August 27, 2011
In just two weeks, we’ll come together, as a nation, to mark the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.We’ll remember the innocent lives we lost.We’ll stand with the families who loved them.We’ll honor the heroic first responders who rushed to the scene and saved so many.And we’ll pay tribute to our troops and military families, and all those who have served over the past ten years, to keep us safe and strong.We’ll also recall how the worst terrorist attack in American history brought out the best in the American people.How Americans lined up to give blood.How volunteers drove acro the country to lend a hand.How schoolchildren donated their savings.How communities, faith groups and businees collected food and clothing.We were united, and the outpouring of generosity and compaion reminded us that in times of challenge, we Americans move forward together, as one people.This September 11th, Michelle and I will join the commemorations at Ground Zero, in Shanksville, and at the Pentagon.But even if you can’t be in New York, Pennsylvania or Virginia, every American can be part of this anniversary.Once again, 9/11 will be a National Day of Service and Remembrance.And in the days and weeks ahead, folks acro the country—in all 50 states—will come together, in their communities and neighborhoods, to honor the victims of 9/11 and to reaffirm the strength of our nation with acts of service and charity.In Minneapolis, volunteers will help restore a community center.In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, they’ll hammer shingles and lay floors to give families a new home.In Tallahaee, Florida, they’ll aemble care packages for our troops overseas and their families here at home.In Orange County, California, they’ll renovate homes for our veterans.And once again, Michelle and I look forward to joining a local service project as well.There are so many ways to get involved, and every American can do something.To learn more about the opportunities where you live, just go online and visit Serve.gov.Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindne, is a way to honor those we lost;a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11.On this 10th anniversary, we still face great challenges as a nation.We’re emerging from the worst economic crisis in our lifetimes.We’re taking the fight to al Qaeda, ending the war in Iraq and starting to bring our troops home from Afghanistan.And we’re working to rebuild the foundation of our national strength here at home.None of this will be easy.And it can’t be the work of government alone.As we saw after 9/11, the strength of America has always been the character and compaion of our people.So as we mark this solemn anniversary, let’s summon that spirit once more.And let’s show that the sense of common purpose that we need in America doesn’t have to be a fleeting moment;it can be a lasting virtue—not just on one day, but every day
36.Putting Country Ahead of Party August 20, 2011
Hello from the Country Corner Farm in Alpha, Illinois!For the past few days, I’ve been traveling to small towns and farm towns here in the heartland of this country.I sat down with small busine owners in Gutenberg, Iowa;and ranchers and farmers in Peosta.I had lunch with veterans in Cannon Falls, Minnesota;and talked to plant workers at a seed distributor in Atkinson, Illinois.And to the girls volleyball team at Maquoketa High School, let me just say one thing: Go Cardinals.Now, I’m out here for one reason: I think Washington, DC can learn something from the folks in Atkinson and Peosta and Cannon Falls.I think our country would be a whole lot better off if our elected leaders showed the same kind of discipline and integrity and responsibility that most Americans demonstrate in their lives every day.Because, the fact is, we’re going through a tough time right now.We’re coming through a terrible receion;a lot of folks are still looking for work.A lot of people are getting by with smaller paychecks or le money in the cash register.So we need folks in Washington – the people whose job it is to deal with the country’s problems, the people who you elected to serve – we need them to put aside their differences to get things done.There are things we can do right now that will mean more customers for businees and more jobs acro the country.We can cut payroll taxes again, so families have an extra $1,000 to spend.We can pa a road construction bill so construction crews – now sitting idle – can head back to the worksite, rebuilding roads, bridges, and airports.We’ve got brave, skilled Americans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.Let’s connect them with businees that could use their skills.And let’s pa trade deals to level the playing field for our businees.We have Americans driving Hyundais and Kias.Well, I want to see folks in Korea driving Fords, Chevys and Chryslers.I want more products sold around the globe stamped with three words: Made in America.These are commonsense ideas – ideas that have been supported by both Democrats and Republicans.The only thing holding them back is politics.The only thing preventing us from paing these bills is the refusal by some in Congre to put country ahead of party.That’s the problem right now.That’s what’s holding this country back.That’s what we have to change.Because, for all the knocks we’ve taken, despite all the challenges we face, this is still the greatest country on earth.We still have the best workers and farmers, entrepreneurs and businees, students and scientists.And you can see that here in Alpha.You can see it along the country roads that connect these small towns and farmlands.These past few days, I’ve been seeing little kids with American flags and grandparents in lawn chairs.I’ve shaken hands with folks outside machine shops and churches, corner stores and farms.It reminds me why I got into public service in the first place.Getting out of Washington and spending time with the people of this country – seeing how hard you’re working, how creative you are, how resourceful you are, how determined you are – that only makes me more determined to serve you as best I can as President.And it only makes me more confident in our future.That’s why it’s so important that folks in Washington put country before party.That’s why it’s so important that our elected leaders get past their differences to help grow the economy and put this nation back to work.Because here in Alpha it couldn’t be more clear: if we can come together, there’s no stopping the United States of America.There’s no doubt that our future is bright.Thanks, and have a great weekend.37.Putting the American People First August 13, 2011
On Thursday, I visited a new, high-tech factory in Michigan where workers are helping America lead the way in a growing clean energy industry.They were proud of their work, and they should be.They’re not just showing us a path out of the worst receion in generations – they’re proving that this is still a country where we make things;where new ideas take root and grow;where the best universities, most creative entrepreneurs, and most dynamic businees in the world call home.They’re proving that even in difficult times, there’s not a country on Earth that wouldn’t trade places with us.That doesn’t mean we don’t face some very tough economic challenges.Many Americans are hurting badly right now.Many have been unemployed for too long.Putting these men and women back to work, and growing wages for everyone, has got to be our top priority.But lately, the response from Washington has been partisanship and gridlock that’s only undermined public confidence and hindered our efforts to grow the economy.So while there’s nothing wrong with our country, there is something wrong with our politics, and that’s what we’ve got to fix.Because we know there are things Congre can do, right now, to get more money back in your pockets, get this economy growing faster, and get our friends and neighbors back to work.The payroll tax cut that put $1,000 back in the average family’s pocket this year? Let’s extend it.Construction workers who’ve been joble since the housing boom went bust? Let’s put them back to work rebuilding America.Let’s cut red tape in the patent proce so entrepreneurs can get good ideas to market more quickly.Let’s finish trade deals so we can sell more American-made goods around the world.Let’s connect the hundreds of thousands of brave Americans coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan to businees that need their incredible skills and talents.These are all things we can do right now.So let’s do them.And over the coming weeks, I’ll put forward more proposals to help our businees hire and create jobs, and won’t stop until every American who wants a job can find one.But we can no longer let partisan brinksmanship get in our way – the idea that making it through the next election is more important than making things right.That’s what’s holding us back – the fact that some in Congre would rather see their opponents lose than see America win.So you’ve got a right to be frustrated.I am.Because you deserve better.And I don’t think it’s too much for you to expect that the people you send to this town start delivering.Members of Congre are at home in their districts right now.And if you agree with me – whether you’re a Democrat or a Republican or not much of a fan of either – let them know.If you’ve had it with gridlock, and you want them to pa stalled bills that will help our economy right now – let them know.If you refuse to settle for a politics where scoring points is more important than solving problems;if you believe it’s time to put country before party and the interests of our children before our own – let them know.And maybe they’ll get back to Washington ready to compromise, ready to create jobs, ready to get our fiscal house in order – ready to do what you sent them to do.Yes, we’ve still got a long way to go to get to where we need to be.We didn’t get into this me overnight, and it’s going to take time to get out of it.That’s a hard truth – but it’s no excuse for inaction.After all, America voted for divided government, not dysfunctional government, and we’ve got work to do.And when we come together and find common ground, there’s no stopping this country.There’s no stopping our people.There’s no holding us back.And there is every reason to believe we’ll get through this storm to a brighter day.Thanks for listening, and have a nice weekend.38.Getting the Economy Growing Faster August 6, 2011
This week, Congre reached an agreement that’s going to allow us to make some progre in reducing our nation’s budget deficit.And through this compromise, both parties are going to have to work together on a larger plan to get our nation’s finances in order.That’s important.We’ve got to make sure that Washington lives within its means, just like families do.In the long term, the health of our economy depends on it.But in the short term, our urgent miion has to be getting this economy growing faster and creating jobs.That’s what’s on people’s minds;that’s what matters to families in this country.And the fact is, this has been a tumultuous year for the economy.We’ve weathered the Arab Spring’s effect on oil and gas prices.The Japanese earthquake and tsunami’s effect on supply chains.The economic situation in Europe.And in Washington, there was a contentious debate over our nation’s budget that nearly dragged our country into financial crisis.So our job right now has to be doing whatever we can to help folks find work;to help create the climate where a busine can put up that job listing;where incomes are rising again for people.We’ve got to rebuild this economy and the sense of security that middle cla has felt slipping away for years.And while deficit reduction has to be part of our economic strategy, it’s not the only thing we have to do.We need Democrats and Republicans to work together to help grow this economy.We’ve got to put politics aside to get some things done.That’s what the American people expect of us.And there are a number of steps that Congre can take right away, when they return in September.We need to extend tax cuts for working and middle cla families so you have more money in your paychecks next year.That would help millions of people to make ends meet.And that extra money for expenses means businees will have more customers, and will be in a better position to hire.Yesterday, I proposed a new tax credit for companies that hire veterans who are looking for work after serving their country.We’ve got a lot of honorable and skilled people returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, and companies that could benefit from their abilities.Let’s put them together.We need to make sure that millions of workers who are still pounding the pavement looking for jobs are not denied unemployment benefits to carry them through hard times.We’ve got to cut the red tape that stops too many inventors and entrepreneurs from quickly turning new ideas into thriving businees – which holds back our whole economy.It’s time Congre finally paed a set of trade deals that would help displaced workers looking for new jobs, and that would allow our businees to sell more products in countries in Asia and South America – products stamped with three words: Made in America.And we ought to give more opportunities to all those construction workers who lost their jobs when the housing boom went bust.We could put them to work right now, by giving loans to companies that want to repair our roads and bridges and airports, helping to rebuild America.Those are a few commonsense steps that would help the economy.And these are ideas that have been supported by both Democrats and Republicans in the past.So I’m going to keep calling on both parties in Congre to put aside their differences and send these bills to my desk so I can sign them right away.After all, both parties share power.Both parties share responsibility for our progre.Moving our economy and our country forward is not a Democratic or a Republican responsibility;it is our responsibility as Americans.That’s the spirit we need in Washington right now.That’s how we’ll get this economy growing faster and reach a brighter day.Thanks for listening, and have a great weekend.39.Compromise on Behalf of the American People July 30, 2011
Today, I’d like to speak with you about the ongoing and urgent efforts to avoid a first-ever default and get our fiscal house in order.Republicans in the House of Representatives just spent precious days trying to pa a plan that a majority of Republicans and Democrats in the Senate had already said they wouldn’t vote for.It’s a plan that wouldn’t solve our fiscal problems, but would force us to re-live this crisis in just a few short months.It would hold our economy captive to Washington politics once again.If anything, the past few weeks have demonstrated that’s unacceptable.Any solution to avoid default must be bipartisan.It must have the support of both parties that were sent here to represent the American people – not just one faction of one party.There are multiple ways to resolve this problem.Congre must find common ground on a plan that can get support from both parties in the House.And it’s got to be a plan that I can sign by Tuesday.Look, the parties are not that far apart here.We’re in rough agreement on how much spending we need to cut to reduce our deficit.We agree on a proce to tackle tax reform and entitlement reform.There are plenty of ways out of this me.But there is very little time.We need to reach a compromise by Tuesday so that our country will have the ability to pay its bills on time – bills like Social Security checks, veterans’ benefits, and contracts we’ve signed with thousands of American businees.If we don’t, for the first time ever, we could lose our country’s Triple A credit rating.Not because we didn’t have the capacity to pay our bills – we do – but because we didn’t have a Triple A political system to match it.And make no mistake – for those who reflexively oppose tax increases on anyone, a lower credit rating would be a tax increase on everyone – we’d pay higher interest rates on mortgages, car loans, and credit cards.That would be inexcusable, and entirely self-inflicted by Washington.The power to solve this is in our hands.All that’s needed is a simple vote that Democrats and Republicans have taken for decades, including all of the leaders in Congre today.It was done 18 times under President Reagan.7 times under George W.Bush.And it must be done again now.It’s not a vote that allows Congre to spend more money.Raising the debt ceiling simply gives our country the ability to pay the bills Congre has already racked up.It gives the United States of America the ability to keep its word.And it will let businees and our economy breathe a sigh of relief.On Monday night, I asked you to make your voice heard in this debate.And the response was overwhelming.One of the emails we received was from a woman named Kelly Smith, who wanted to send this meage to Washington:
“I keep my home clean, work hard at a full time job, give my parents any monies I can so they can afford their medications, I pay my bills and by all appearances I am a responsible person.All I’m asking is that you be responsible.I have my house in order and all I’m asking is that you get yours the same way.”
Here in Washington, we need to get our house in order.And I have to say, Democrats in Congre and some Senate Republicans have been listening and have shown themselves willing to make compromises to solve this crisis.Now all of us – including Republicans in the House of Representatives – need to demonstrate the same kind of responsibility that the American people show every day.The time for putting party first is over.The time for compromise on behalf of the American people is now.Thank you.40.A Bipartisan Approach to Strengthening the Economy July 23, 2011
For years, the government has spent more money than it takes in.The result is a lot of debt on our nation’s credit card – debt that unle we act will weaken our economy, cause higher interest rates for families, and force us to scale back things like education and Medicare.Now, folks in Washington like to blame one another for this problem.But the truth is, neither party is blamele.And both parties have a responsibility to do something about it.Every day, families are figuring out how stretch their paychecks – struggling to cut what they can’t afford so they can pay for what’s really important.It’s time for Washington to do the same thing.But for that to happen, it means that Democrats and Republicans have to work together.It means we need to put aside our differences to do what’s right for the country.Everyone is going to have to be willing to compromise.Otherwise, we’ll never get anything done.That’s why we need a balanced approach to cutting the deficit.We need an approach that goes after waste in the budget and gets rid of pet projects that cost billions of dollars.We need an approach that makes some serious cuts to worthy programs – cuts I wouldn’t make under normal circumstances.And we need an approach that asks everybody to do their part.So that means, yes, we have to make serious budget cuts;but that it’s not right to ask middle cla families to pay more for college before we ask the biggest corporations to pay their fair share of taxes.It means that before we stop funding clean energy, we should ask oil companies and corporate jet owners to give up the tax breaks that other companies don’t get.Before we cut medical research, we should ask hedge fund managers to stop paying taxes at a lower rate than their secretaries.Before we ask seniors to pay more for Medicare, we should ask the wealthiest taxpayers to give up tax breaks we simply cannot afford under these circumstances.That’s the heart of this approach: serious cuts, balanced by some new revenues.And it’s been the position of every Democratic and Republican leader who has worked to reduce the deficit, from Bill Clinton to Ronald Reagan.In fact, earlier this week, one of the most conservative members of the Senate, Tom Coburn, announced his support for a balanced, bipartisan plan that shows promise.And then a funny thing happened.He received a round of applause – from a group of Republican and Democratic senators.That’s a rare event in Washington.So there will be plenty of haggling over the details in the days ahead.But this debate boils down to a simple choice.We can come together for the good of the country and reach a compromise;we can strengthen our economy and leave for our children a more secure future.Or we can iue insults and demands and ultimatums at each another, withdraw to our partisan corners, and achieve nothing.Well, we know the right thing to do.And we know what the American people expect us to do.41.Securing Our Fiscal Future July 16, 2011
Today, there’s a debate going on in Washington over the best way to get America’s fiscal house in order and get our economy on a stronger footing going forward.For a decade, America has been spending more money than we’ve taken in.For several decades, our debt has been rising.And let’s be honest – neither party in this town is blamele.Both have talked this problem to death without doing enough about it.That’s what drives people nuts about Washington.Too often, it’s a place more concerned with playing politics and serving special interests than resolving real problems or focusing on what you’re facing in your own lives.But right now, we have a responsibility – and an opportunity – to reduce our deficit as much as poible and solve this problem in a real and comprehensive way.Simply put, it will take a balanced approach, shared sacrifice, and a willingne to make unpopular choices on all our parts.That means spending le on domestic programs.It means spending le on defense programs.It means reforming programs like Medicare to reduce costs and strengthen the program for future generations.And it means taking on the tax code, and cutting out certain tax breaks and deductions for the wealthiest Americans.Now, some of these things don’t make folks in my party too happy.And I wouldn’t agree to some of these cuts if we were in a better fiscal situation, but we’re not.That’s why I’m willing to compromise.I’m willing to do what it takes to solve this problem, even if it’s not politically popular.And I expect leaders in Congre to show that same willingne to compromise.The truth is, you can’t solve our deficit without cutting spending.But you also can’t solve it without asking the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share – or without taking on loopholes that give special interests and big corporations tax breaks that middle-cla Americans don’t get.It’s pretty simple.I don’t think oil companies should keep getting special tax breaks when they’re making tens of billions in profits.I don’t think hedge fund managers should pay taxes at a lower rate than their secretaries.I don’t think it’s fair to ask nothing of someone like me when the average family has seen their income decline over the past decade – and when many of you are just trying to stretch every dollar as far it it’ll go.We shouldn’t put the burden of deficit reduction on the backs of folks who’ve already borne the brunt of the receion.It’s not reasonable and it’s not right.If we’re going to ask seniors, or students, or middle-cla Americans to sacrifice, then we have to ask corporations and the wealthiest Americans to share in that sacrifice.We have to ask everyone to play their part.Because we are all part of the same country.We are all in this together.So I’ve put things on the table that are important to me and to Democrats, and I expect Republican leaders to do the same.After all, we’ve worked together like that before.Ronald Reagan worked with Tip O’Neill and Democrats to cut spending, raise revenues, and reform Social Security.Bill Clinton worked with Newt Gingrich and Republicans to balance the budget and create surpluses.Nobody ever got everything they wanted.But they worked together.And they moved this country forward.That kind of cooperation should be the least you expect from us – not the most you expect from us.You work hard, you do what’s right, and you expect leaders who do the same.You sent us to Washington to do the tough things.The right things.Not just for some of us, but for all of us.Not just what’s enough to get through the next election – but what’s right for the next generation.You expect us to get this right.To put America back on firm economic ground.To forge a healthy, growing economy.To create new jobs and rebuild the lives of the middle cla.And that’s what I’m committed to doing.Thank you.42.Working Together to Meet our Fiscal Challenges July 9, 2011
Earlier this week, we did something that’s never been done here at the White House – we had a Twitter Town Hall.I even sent my first live tweet as President.The questions at the town hall were sent in from acro the country and covered all kinds of topics – from jobs and the economy to education and energy.Lots of people also submitted different versions of another question.They’d start by saying that our politics has grown so contentious.Then they’d ask, When will both parties in Congre come together on behalf of the people who elected them?
That’s a really important question, and it goes to the heart of a debate we’re having right now in this country – and that’s the debate about how to tackle the problem of our deficits and our debt.Now, there are obviously real differences in approach.I believe we need a balanced approach.That means taking on spending in our domestic programs and our defense programs.It means addreing the challenges in programs like Medicare so we can strengthen those programs and protect them for future generations.And it means taking on spending in the tax code – spending on tax breaks and deductions for the wealthiest Americans.But I also know that Republicans and Democrats don’t see eye to eye on a number of iues.And so, we’re going to continue working over the weekend to bridge those gaps.The good news is, we agree on some of the big things.We agree that after a decade of racking up deficits and debt, we finally need to get our fiscal house in order.We agree that to do that, both sides are going to have to step outside their comfort zones and make some political sacrifices.And we agree that we simply cannot afford to default on our national obligations for the first time in our history;that we need to uphold the full faith and credit of the United States of America
With a recovery that’s still fragile and isn’t producing all the jobs we need, the last thing we can afford is the usual partisan game-playing in Washington.By getting our fiscal house in order, Congre will be in a stronger position to focus on some of the job-creating measures I’ve already proposed – like putting people to work rebuilding America’s infrastructure, or reforming our patent system so that our innovators and entrepreneurs have a greater incentive to generate new products, or making college more affordable for families.And businees that may be holding back because of the uncertainty surrounding the poibility of a default by the U.S.government will have greater confidence to invest and create jobs.I know we can do this.We can meet our fiscal challenge.That’s what the American people sent us here to do.They didn’t send us here to kick our problems down the road.That’s exactly what they don’t like about Washington.They sent us here to work together.They sent us here to get things done.Right now, we have an extraordinary – and extraordinarily rare – opportunity to move forward in a way that makes sure our government lives within its means, that puts our economy on a sounder footing for the future, and that still invests in the things we need to prosper in the years to come.And I’m hopeful that we will rise to the moment, and seize this opportunity, on behalf of all Americans, and the future we hold in common.Thanks everyone, and have a great weekend.43.Cutting the Deficit and Creating Jobs July 2, 2011
Right now, there are a lot of folks who are still struggling with the effects of the receion.They’re wondering how they’d deal with an unexpected expense if their car breaks down.They’re worried about layoffs.They’re not sure if they can help their kids pay for college.And for many families, these challenges were around long before the receion hit in 2007.I ran for President because I believed in an America where ordinary folks could get ahead;where if you worked hard, you could have a better life.That’s been my focus since I came into office, and that has to be our focus now.It’s one of the reasons why we’re working to reduce our nation’s deficit.Government has to start living within its means, just like families do.We have to cut the spending we can’t afford so we can put the economy on sounder footing, and give our businees the confidence they need to grow and create jobs.The good news is, Democrats and Republicans agree on the need to solve the problem.And over the last few weeks, the Vice President and I have gotten both parties to identify more than $1 trillion in spending cuts.That’s trillion with a ‘t.’ But after a decade in which Washington ran up the country’s credit card, we’ve got to find more savings to get out of the red.That means looking at every program and tax break in the budget – every single one – to find places to cut waste and save money.It means we’ll have to make tough decisions and scale back worthy programs.And nothing can be off limits, including spending in the tax code, particularly the loopholes that benefit very few individuals and corporations.Now, it would be nice if we could keep every tax break, but we can’t afford them.Because if we choose to keep those tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires, or for hedge fund managers and corporate jet owners, or for oil and gas companies pulling in huge profits without our help – then we’ll have to make even deeper cuts somewhere else.We’ve got to say to a student, ‘You don’t get a college scholarship.’ We have to say to a medical researcher, ‘You can’t do that cancer research.’ We might have to tell seniors, ‘You have to pay more for Medicare.’
That isn’t right, and it isn’t smart.We’ve got to cut the deficit, but we can do that while making investments in education, research, and technology that actually create jobs.We can live within our means while still investing in our future.That’s what we have to do.And I’m confident that the Democrats and Republicans in Congre can find a way to give some ground, make some hard choices, and put their shoulders to wheel to get this done for the sake of our country.On Monday, we celebrate Independence Day, the day we declared a new nation, based on revolutionary idea: that people ought to determine their own destiny;that freedom and self-governance weren’t gifts handed to us by kings or emperors, but the rights of every human being.We’ve learned in the years since that democracy isn’t always pretty.We have arguments.We disagree.But time and again we’ve proven that we could come together to solve problems.We remember that while we may not see eye-to-eye on everything, we share a love for this country and a faith in its future.That’s the spirit we need to harne now.That’s how we’ll meet this challenge and reach a brighter day.Thanks for listening, and have a wonderful fourth of July.44.Strengthening America by Investing at Home June 25, 2011
Hello, everybody.Earlier this week, I spoke about our way forward in Afghanistan, and I said that because of the extraordinary work of our men and women in uniform, civilians, and our coalition partners, we will soon begin bringing our troops home, just as we’ve begun doing in Iraq.After a decade of conflict, we’re finally bringing these wars to a responsible end.That’s in the best interests of America’s security.And it’s also in the best interests of America’s economy.Even though we’ve turned our economy in the right direction over the past couple of years, many Americans are still hurting, and now is the time to focus on nation building here at home.Of course, there’s been a real debate about where to invest and where to cut, and I’m committed to working with members of both parties to cut our deficits and debt.But we can’t simply cut our way to prosperity.We need to do what’s neceary to grow our economy;create good, middle-cla jobs;and make it poible for all Americans to pursue their dreams.That means giving our kids the best education in the world so they have the knowledge and skills to succeed in this economy.It means rebuilding our crumbling roads, railways, and runways.And it means investing in the cutting-edge research and technologies that will spur growth in the years ahead – from clean energy to advanced manufacturing.That’s why I’m here today at Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, one of America’s leading research universities.Behind me is a display from a company called RedZone Robotics.The robots they make are used to explore water and sewage pipes, and find leaks and breaks before they become expensive problems.But the folks at RedZone aren’t just solving problems;they’re working with unions to create new jobs operating the robots, and they’re saving cities millions of dollars in infrastructure costs.This company is just one example of how advanced manufacturing can help spur job-creation and economic growth acro this country.That’s why this week, we launched what we’re calling an Advanced Manufacturing Partnership.It’s a partnership that brings our federal government together with some of America’s most brilliant minds and some of America’s most innovative companies and manufacturers.Their miion is to come up with a way to get ideas from the drawing board to the manufacturing floor to the marketplace as swiftly as poible, which will help create quality jobs, and make our businees more competitive.But they also have a broader miion.It’s to renew the promise of American manufacturing.To help make sure America remains in this century what we were in the last – a country that makes things.A country that out-builds and out-innovates the rest of the world.I know these have been tough years for American manufacturing, and all the workers and families who’ve built their lives around it.But being here in Pittsburgh, I’m hopeful about the future.I’m hopeful when I think about how companies like RedZone are reinvigorating manufacturing or about how what started as a small trade school is now a global research university.We are a people who’ve always adapted to meet the challenges of a new time;who’ve always shaped our own destiny, and I’m absolutely confident that that’s what we’re going to do one more time.Have a great weekend.45.Celebrating Fathers On Father's Day weekend, President Obama reflects on his experience as a parent and discues the challenges and neceity of being a good father.WASHINGTON – In his weekly addre, President Obama reflected on Father’s Day and his experience as a parent and discued the challenges and neceity of being a good father.The President knows that many Americans who want to be better fathers lack the resources to spend quality time with their children, so the White House has fostered new partnerships with businees in an effort to support bonding opportunities for fathers and their families.While the President recognizes that fatherhood is demanding and often trying, especially during a time of economic struggle and when many Americans are serving our country overseas, he reminds parents that above all, children need unconditional love, whether they succeed or make mistakes;when life is easy and when life is tough.So as President Obama continuously strives to be the best father he can be, he calls on fathers acro the country to do the same.Hi, everybody.This Father’s Day weekend, I’d like to spend a couple minutes talking about what’s sometimes my hardest, but always my most rewarding job – being a dad.I grew up without my father around.He left when I was two years old, and even though my sister and I were lucky enough to have a wonderful mother and caring grandparents to raise us, I felt his absence.And I wonder what my life would have been like had he been a greater presence.That’s why I’ve tried so hard to be a good dad for my own children.I haven’t always succeeded, of course – in the past, my job has kept me away from home more often than I liked, and the burden of raising two young girls would sometimes fall too heavily on Michelle.But between my own experiences growing up, and my ongoing efforts to be the best father I can be, I’ve learned a few things about what our children need most from their parents.First, they need our time.And more important than the quantity of hours we spend with them is the quality of those hours.Maybe it’s just asking about their day, or talking a walk together, but the smallest moments can have the biggest impact.They also need structure, including learning the values of self-discipline and responsibility.Malia and Sasha may live in the White House these days, but Michelle and I still make sure they finish their schoolwork, do their chores, and walk the dog.And above all, children need our unconditional love – whether they succeed or make mistakes;when life is easy and when life is tough.And life is tough for a lot of Americans today.More and more kids grow up without a father figure.Others mi a father who’s away serving his country in uniform.And even for those dads who are present in their children’s lives, the receion has taken a harsh toll.If you’re out of a job or struggling to pay the bills, doing whatever it takes to keep the kids healthy, happy and safe can understandably take precedence over all else.That’s why my administration has offered men who want to be good fathers a little extra support.We’ve boosted community and faith-based groups focused on fatherhood, partnered with businees to offer opportunities for fathers to spend time with their kids at the bowling alley or ballpark, and worked with military chaplains to help deployed dads connect with their children.We’re doing this because we all have a stake in forging stronger bonds between fathers and their children.And you can find out more about some of what we’re doing at Fatherhood.gov.But we also know that every father has a personal responsibility to do right by our kids as well.All of us can encourage our children to turn off the video games and pick up a book.All of us can pack a healthy lunch for our son, or go outside and play ball with our daughter.And all of us can teach our children the difference between right and wrong, and show them through our own example the value in treating one another as we wish to be treated.Our kids are pretty smart.They understand that life won’t always be perfect, that sometimes, the road gets rough, that even great parents don’t get everything right.But more than anything, they just want us to be a part of their lives.So recently, I took on a second job: aistant coach for Sasha’s basketball team.On Sundays, we’d get the team together to practice, and a couple of times, I’d help coach the games.It was a lot of fun – even if Sasha rolled her eyes when her dad voiced his displeasure with the refs.But I was so proud watching her run up and down the court, seeing her learn and improve and gain confidence.And I was hopeful that in the years to come, she’d look back on experiences like these as the ones that helped define her as a person – and as a parent herself.In the end, that’s what being a parent is all about – those precious moments with our children that fill us with pride and excitement for their future;the chances we have to set an example or offer a piece of advice;the opportunities to just be there and show them that we love them.That’s something worth remembering this Father’s Day, and every day.Thanks, and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there.Have a great weekend 46.Partnering with the Private Sector to Spur Hiring The President outlines how the government is partnering with the private sector to ensure workers have the skills they need to be competitive and grow the economy.WASHINGTON – In his weekly addre, President Obama spoke to the American people about how the government is partnering with the private sector to make sure workers have the skills and training they need in this economy.This past Wednesday, he announced commitments by the private sector, colleges, and the National Aociation of Manufacturers that will make it poible for half a million community college students to get a manufacturing credential that has the industry’s stamp of approval.And on Monday, he will travel to North Carolina to meet with his Jobs Council to work on the steps the government can take to spur private sector hiring in the short-term and ensure our workers have the skills and training they need.Hello, everyone.I want to spend a couple minutes talking with you about our economy.We’ve just come through the worst receion since the Great Depreion, and while our economy as a whole has been growing and adding private sector jobs, too many folks are still struggling to get back on their feet.I wish I could tell you there was a quick fix to our economic problems.But the truth is, we didn’t get into this me overnight, and we won’t get out of it overnight.It’s going to take time.The good news is, when it comes to job-creation and economic growth, there are certain things we know we can do.Now, government is not – and should not be – the main engine of job-creation in this country.That’s the role of the private sector.But one thing government can do is partner with the private sector to make sure that every worker has the neceary skills for the jobs they’re applying for.On Wednesday, I announced commitments by the private sector, colleges, and the National Aociation of Manufacturers that will make it poible for 500,000 community college students to get a manufacturing credential that has the industry’s stamp of approval.If you’re a company that’s hiring, you’ll know that anyone who has this degree has the skills you’re looking for.If you’re a student considering community college, you’ll know that your diploma will give you a leg up in the job market.On Monday, I’ll travel to North Carolina, where I’ll meet with my Jobs Council and talk about additional steps we can take to spur private sector hiring in the short-term and ensure our workers have the skills and training they need in this economy.There are also a few other things we know will help grow our economy, and give people good jobs that support a middle-cla lifestyle.We know that a quality education is a prerequisite for succe, so we’re challenging states and school districts to improve teaching and learning, and making it a national goal to once again have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world by 2020.We know that more and more jobs are being created in the clean energy sector, so we’re investing in wind power, solar power, and biofuels that will make us le dependent on foreign oil and clean up our planet for our children.These are steps we know will make a difference in people’s lives – not just twenty years from now, or ten years from now, but now, and in the months to come.In the end, the folks I hear from in letters or meet when I travel acro the country – they aren’t asking for much.They’re just looking for a job that covers their bills.They’re just looking for a little financial security.They want to know that if they work hard and live within their means, everything will be all right.They’ll be able to get ahead, and give their kids a better life.That’s the dream each of us has for ourselves and our families.And so long as I have the privilege of serving as President, I’ll keep fighting to put that dream within reach for all Americans.Have a great weekend, everybody.47.Growing Manufacturing with the Auto Industry Turnaround Speaking from a Chrysler plant in Toledo, Ohio, the President commends the work of America’s dedicated autoworkers, who have helped reinvigorate the domestic auto industry.WASHINGTON – Speaking to the American people from a Chrysler plant in Toledo, Ohio, President Obama commended the work of America’s dedicated autoworkers, who have helped reinvigorate the domestic auto industry.Each of The Big Three automakers is now turning a profit, and the domestic auto industry continues to add shifts and create new jobs acro the country.When President Obama decided to lend a hand to the American automotive industry shortly after taking office, it was with the understanding that these great manufacturers would have to restructure, modernize and position themselves to thrive in a competitive global marketplace.Now, just a few years after the American auto industry teetered on the brink of collapse, America’s great manufacturers of yesterday have emerged as some of the great manufacturers of today.Hello, everyone.I’m speaking to you today from a Chrysler plant in Toledo, Ohio, where I just met with workers, including Jill.Jill was born and raised here.Her mother and step-father retired from this plant.And she met her husband here, and now they have two children of their own.This plant has not only been central to the economy of this town.It’s been a part of the lifeblood of this community.The reason I came to Toledo was to congratulate Jill and her co-workers on the turnaround they helped bring about at Chrysler and throughout the auto industry.Today, each of the Big Three automakers – Chrysler, GM, and Ford – is turning a profit for the first time since 2004.Chrysler has repaid every dime and more of what it owes American taxpayers for their support during my presidency – and it repaid that money six years ahead of schedule.And this week, we reached a deal to sell our remaining stake.That means soon, Chrysler will be 100% in private hands.Most importantly, all three American automakers are now adding shifts and creating jobs at the strongest rate since the 1990s.Chrysler has added a second shift at the Jefferson North plant in Detroit that I visited last year.GM is adding a third shift at its Hamtramck plant for the first time ever.And GM plans to hire back all of the workers they had to lay off during the receion.That’s remarkable when you think about where we were just a couple of years ago.When I took office, we were facing the worst receion since the Great Depreion – a receion that hit our auto industry particularly hard.In the year before I was President, this industry lost more than 400,000 jobs, and two great American companies, Chrysler and GM, stood on the brink of collapse.Now, we had a few options.We could have done what a lot of folks in Washington thought we should do – nothing.But that would have made a bad receion worse and put a million people out of work.I refused to let that happen.So, I said, if GM and Chrysler were willing to take the difficult steps of restructuring and making themselves more competitive, the American people would stand by them – and we did.But we decided to do more than rescue this industry from a crisis.We decided to help it retool for a new age, and that’s what we’re doing all acro the country – we’re making sure America can out-build, out-innovate, and out-compete the rest of the world.That’s how we’ll build an economy where you can see your incomes and savings rise again, send your kids to college, and retire with dignity, security, and respect.That’s how we’ll make sure we keep that fundamental American promise – that if you work hard and act responsibly, you’ll be able to pa on a better life to your kids and grandkids.Now, we’ve got a ways to go.Even though our economy has created more than two million private sector jobs over the past 15 months and continues to grow, we’re facing some tough headwinds.Lately, it’s high gas prices, the earthquake in Japan, and unease about the European fiscal situation.That will happen from time to time.There will be bumps on the road to recovery.We know that.But we also know what’s happened here, at this Chrysler plant.We know that hardworking Americans like Jill helped turn this company and this industry around.That’s the American story.We’re a people who don’t give up – who do big things, who shape our own destiny.And I’m absolutely confident that if we hold on to that spirit, our best days are still ahead of us.Thanks for tuning in, and have a great weekend.48.Biden on the American Auto Comeback Vice President Joe Biden delivers the Weekly Addre, celebrating the succe of the American auto industry in the wake of Chrysler paying back their loans.WASHINGTON – In this week’s addre, Vice President Biden highlighted the resurgence of the American automobile industry.This week, Chrysler Corporation repaid its U.S.government loans six years ahead of schedule, and GM announced its Detroit Hamtramck plant was taking on three shifts for the first time in its 26-year history.In a visit to a Chrysler dealership in Manchester, NH, the Vice President spoke with the hard-working Americans who have helped rebuild one of America’s great manufacturers.And as Memorial Day approaches, the Vice President encouraged all Americans to thank the servicemen and women of past and present who have sacrificed so much for our country.During a time when many Americans are overseas, it’s vital we let our troops and their families know how much they mean to us all.Hello, everyone.I hope you’re having a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend.I’ve got some good news for us today.Not only is our economy overall growing, but one of the important sectors of our economy is on the rise again: the American automobile industry.Just a few days ago, on Tuesday, Chrysler Corporation announced that they were repaying the taxpayers for the loans we gave them when we came into office.And this announcement came six years ahead of schedule – and just two years after Chrysler Corporation emerged from bankruptcy.You know, and it’s a sign of what’s happening throughout the American automobile industry.It’s not just Chrysler.Also this week, GM announced that its Detroit Hamtramck factory will run three shifts for the first time its 26-year history.You know, that’s 2,500 more good, paying jobs.In the words of Don LaForest, of the UAW – and I want to quote him – he said, “It’s mind-boggling that we can go from near-extinction to full employment in two years.”
What you didn’t get to hear in my rendition of his quote is the tone of his voice: It was full of pride.Genuine pride.Because I can tell you he knows – as my dad used to say-that a job is about a lot more than a paycheck.It’s about dignity.It’s about respect.And I heard the same pride, and the same feeling of dignity, when I called the Jefferson North Chrysler plant in Detroit the day Chrysler paid back its debt.I talked to a UAW worker – her name was Frances – a line worker, who said her dad had worked on that line before, and that she had been out of work for two-and-a-half years before she was hired a year ago back to the plant.I got the same sense when I went to Bonneville and Son, a Chrysler dealership in Manchester, New Hampshire a couple days ago.85 employees came out, stood out there in the lot with me.85 people.All of whom knew and said, had Chrysler liquidated, had we not helped them, they wouldn’t have a job.When President Obama and I came into office, we faced an auto industry on the brink of extinction.Total collapse.At the time, many people thought the President should just let GM and Chrysler go under.They didn’t think the automobile industry was eential to America’s future.The President disagreed – and, in addition, he wasn’t willing to walk away from the thousands of hardworking UAW members who worked at GM and Chrysler – and in many cases, not only all their lives, but as second and third generation employees.And he certainly wasn’t going to abandon an industry that had meant so much to our economy, and so much to so many for so long.So, he said if GM and Chrysler, and their management, and all their shareholders were willing to do the difficult work of making themselves more competitive, we would support giving them another chance.And because of what we did, the auto industry is rising again.Manufacturing is coming back.And our economy is recovering and it’s gaining traction.But the thing is this: even for a lot of people with jobs, their wages aren’t keeping pace with prices of everything from gas to groceries to health care and college tuition.That’s why the President and I remain focused on, not just recovering from this receion.We’re focused on making sure that if you work hard, play by the rules, you’ll be able to get ahead, put your kids through college, retire with dignity and security.Before I sign off, I just want to mention once again Memorial Day and remember what this holiday’s all about.You know – we still have thousands of troops deployed in harm’s way.In days past, on Memorial Day, we remembered heroes from former wars – but I think it’s absolutely eential that we all remember today that thousands of names have been added to those memorials in the wars that are still continuing.Folks, all I ask you to do is, what my wife Jill and Michelle Obama ask, to reach out to those families who have someone deployed, in your community.Let them know you know.Let them know you know the sacrifice they’re making.Engage in – as my wife would say – a single act of kindne.Maybe invite them to your barbecue this weekend.Mow their lawn.Offer to mow their lawn next week.Make it known that you appreciate their sacrifice and you’re willing to lend a hand.As I said, that’s what Jill and Michelle Obama are doing through their Joining Forces initiative.And that’s what I hope all of us will do every day as long as we have a man or woman deployed in harm’s way.Thank you for listening and enjoy the holiday.49.Reforming “No Child Left Behind” This Year
Having just given the commencement addre at Booker T.Washington High School in Memphis, which has made inspiring progre in recent years, the President says Congre must reform No Child Left Behind to help all our schools thrive.WASHINGTON – In his weekly addre, President Obama praised the progre that schools like Booker T.Washington High School in Memphis have made, and he called on Congre to fix No Child Left Behind this year.To strengthen education in this country, we need to encourage reforms not driven by Washington, but by principals and parents so schools can determine what is best for their kids.And that is why it is so important that Congre replace No Child Left Behind this year, so that schools have that flexibility.Reform just cannot wait.This week, I went to Memphis, Tenneee, where I spoke to the graduating cla of Booker T.Washington High School.Graduations are always happy occasions.But this commencement was especially hopeful – because of just how much the kids at Booker T.Washington High School had overcome.This is a school in the middle of a tough neighborhood in South Memphis.There’s a lot of crime.There’s a lot of poverty.And just a few years ago, only about half of the students at the school graduated.Just a handful went off to college each year.But folks came together to change all that.Under the leadership of a dynamic principal and devoted teachers, they started special academies for ninth graders – because they found that that’s when a lot of kids were lost.They made it poible for students to take AP claes or vocational courses.Most importantly, they didn’t just change the curriculum;they created a culture that prizes hard work and discipline, and that shows every student that they matter.Today, four out five students at the school earn a diploma.70 percent continue their education, many the first in their families to go to college.So Booker T.Washington High School is no longer a story about what’s gone wrong in education.It’s a story about how we can set it right.We need to encourage this kind of change all acro America.We need to reward the reforms that are driven not by Washington, but by principals and teachers and parents.That’s how we’ll make progre in education – not from the top down, but from the bottom up.And that’s the guiding principle of the Race to the Top competition my administration started two years ago.The idea is simple: if states show that they’re serious about reform, we’ll show them the money.And it’s already making a difference throughout the country.In Tenneee, where I met those students, they’ve launched an innovative residency program so that new teachers can be mentored by veteran educators.In Oregon, Michigan and elsewhere, grants are supporting the work of teachers who are lengthening the school day, offering more specialized claes, and making the changes neceary to improve struggling schools.Our challenge now is to allow all fifty states to benefit from the succe of Race to the Top.We need to promote reform that gets results while encouraging communities to figure out what’s best for their kids.That why it’s so important that Congre replace No Child Left Behind this year – so schools have that flexibility.Reform just can’t wait.And if anyone doubts this, they ought to head to Booker T.Washington High.They ought to meet the inspiring young people who overcame so much, and worked so hard, to earn their diplomas – in a school that believed in their promise and gave them the opportunity to succeed.We need to give every child in America that chance.That’s why education reform matters.
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