Obama pushes to pass economic stimulus plan

President Obama's trying to make it clear that he's focused on the economy; however, the new administration is also making it plain that a solution will not come quickly.

By: Rachel Gallaher | WNCT
Published: January 26, 2009

President Obama's trying to make it clear that he's focused on the economy; however, the new administration is also making it plain that a solution will not come quickly.

For now, the push is on to pass the $825 billion economic stimulus plan.

Staff reports outline specifically where and how the money will be spent. It includes making weather protection improvements to at least two million homes, renovating 10,000 schools, expanding health care to 8.5 million Americans, and making the largest investment in infrastructure since the 1950's.

Obama is trying to reach out to Republicans who say his proposals are too expensive and slow.

The president risks political consequences if he pushes the stimulus plan through without opposition support.

"That's the sobering aspect of his job. It's no longer on the campaign trail where you move onto the next event. When you're having to govern you have these challenges," said Dan Bartlett, CBS News Political Analyst.

President Obama says he wants to spend the money within the first 18 months to answer critics who say it's too slow.

Despite that, Republicans continue to call for more tax cuts.