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Evaluate president Obama's Speech. (You should be able to identify at least 5 key proposals he makes for spurring job growth in the US.) Where there specific ideas that you support or oppose? Why? Do you think that this speech will have influence members of Congress? Will it help create jobs? If you feel strongly about this speech, you should consider contacting our CT representatives and letting them know how you feel.
42 comments:
Obama’s job speech really resonated well with me. He made sure to appeal to both parties and everyone in between, and brought the American people back to reality. He said we need to “stop the political circus”, which is very true and relevant; everyone seems focused on furthering their political notoriety, and are forgetting what needs to be done to help America in the meantime.
Obama proposed in his jobs act that there would be transportation construction, renovated schools, tax cuts for small businesses, tax credits for hiring veterans, changes to Medicare and Medicaid, and greater taxes on the wealthy and large corporations to help funs this.
I support Obama’s plan; I think it is the very best we can do with the given situation. I’m sure opponents dislike that the wealthy and corporations are being taxed more, but it is absolutely necessary so we can get the country running again. As Obama pointed out, we are falling behind the global community when it comes to transportation, manufacturing, and education. I think that this job act will help to take us back to the top of the global economy, and gain back international prestige.
I think that this speech will influence members of Congress to support the act. Obama pointed out that components are supported by both parties. He also noted that the focus should not be on thinking that it’s overstepping the governments boundaries, because in the past we have had to in order to create great programs that the American people would be at a loss without.
If the act really is as comprehensive as Obama says, it will certainly help to create more jobs and pull people out of unemployment. In addition, it can help to stabilize the nation’s debt in the long run. America is falling into disrepair, and this bill is what is needed right now to bring us back on top, and help the people generate income and provide for their families.
President Obama's speech on jobs was, dare I say it, a pleasant surprise. Arguing that political grandstanding must be set aside, the President outlined his "uncontroversial" American Jobs Act, urging Congress to "pass this bill right away."
He promised that everything in this bill (with strong bipartisan origins and support) would be paid for, and not contribute to the deficit. The basic idea is to put people back to work with more opportunities, money, and benefits. The focus was on construction workers, teachers, veterans, and the long-term unemployed. Construction workers would help repair the eroding American systems, a process that helped the nation attain its status as superpower and is being done around the world as our own situation gets worse. Educational systems would be encouraged to hire teachers, with thousands of new jobs predicted. Companies that hire veterans would be granted incentives and benefits for them. The unemployment benefits would be extended by a year, and the government would help all looking for jobs, particularly those who have been searching for over six months. To incentivize companies, tax breaks would be provided for companies that hire new workers, and the payroll taxes for "every working American and every small business" would be cut in half. Tax cuts would also be provided for the middle class.
Discussing the funding available for this project, the President promised an "ambitious" deficit plan would be announced next week, cutting government spending beyond the $1 trillion dollars over the decade decided on in July, and reducing the national deficit. He then went on to explain where the money would come from (at which point, as a conservative, I began to panic). However, the President told of modest adjustments that would be made to Medicare and Medicaid, and although he knew this would upset Democrats, old people, and people who don't understand the economy, he firmly told them that we were out of options. Of course, the other shoe dropped, and President Obama called on "the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations to pay their fair share." Fortunately, this did not come across as the Democratic tradition of punishing success, but rather as a necessary measure given the economic times. As this followed the President's proposal to make reductions to the healthcare system, I believed him. Considering that something like the richest 3% of Americans pay about half of all federal income and other taxes, claiming that the successful are not paying their fair share is wrong, even offensive. But it must be admitted that desperate times call for desperate measures, and so long as this is confined to the $447 billion plan, and is coupled with the cuts to health care, I must reluctantly agree that this is a temporary necessary evil.
President Obama's speech was promising, to be sure, but one must consider that it is an election year. I will reserve final judgment until after I see how much of this is followed through on, and how well it is executed.
The American Jobs Act, as President Obama has said, is nothing revolutionary. It’s moderate enough to have suggestions from Republicans and Democrats, gives it an excellent likelihood of being passed. There are no radical reforms, which will inevitably create no radical improvements.
Many Band-aids and carrots were employed in the act. Tax cuts for businesses that give raises and hire workers, especially workers that have been unemployed for 6 months, are commendable. However, the cuts also bear the tone of a doomed sailor bailing water out of a sinking ship. How long can our debt-ridden government afford tax cuts? How many businesses will take the safe path and hire workers than already have jobs rather than risk picking up a burdensome unemployed worker? I would not count out the possibility that the best jobs are just going to be shuffled among those that already possess them, while the unemployed will remain either unemployed, or the possessors of low-income jobs no one else wanted. Some improvement will result of course, but it is dubious whether it would be significant.
The construction stimulus also follows this path. I have no doubt that renovating 35,000 schools and completing public transit project will be beneficial for America, but those benefits won’t be felt until long after the projects are finished. Even if every elementary school in America dramatically increase test scores today and forever after, those graduating 6th graders won’t make it to the job force for another decade. And making high schools less disheveled will hardly lower dropout rates in time to significantly improve next year’s workers. Building better roads and bridges will improve commerce, but the time required to complete those projects and the nuisance of detours everywhere will guarantee that no rapid decrease in transportation times and costs will be boosting our economy anytime soon. If the American Jobs Act survives for several years, maybe then we would feel a difference in the country; for now, it just promises a Band-aid on a hemorrhaging construction sector.
The merit of the independent funding idea for these improvements cannot be contested, but it reveals that funding for the American Jobs Act will be an issue in the future. I eagerly await our President’s more detailed funding plan that he has promised next Monday on how to afford all the tax cuts and government contracts to construction companies. However, as of now, it seems like those “adjustments” to Medicare and Medicaid, and the raised taxes on America’s wealthiest individuals and corporations are the only new revenue sources the government will be receiving. But even with that, any cut to Medicaid and Medicare is going to be hotly contested and fought, and raising taxes for corporations will spur outsourcing. The future of the American Jobs Act will be a difficult battle.
With all criticism aside, this bill definitely seems healthy for now. There’s no way to put more summer jobs for teens, more teachers, and tax cuts for companies hiring veterans in a bad light. The $1500 tax credit for middle class American families will also be well appreciated, if delivered. The American Jobs Act will be a guaranteed stimulus. It will be a small one though, and that’s if it manages to get pass the hurdles that changes to Medicare and higher taxes on corporations will prove to be. It will help, slightly, but like I said at the very beginning: there are no radical reforms, so there will be no radical improvements.
There is no denying that President Obama is an amazing public speaker. His Jobs Speech was written and dictated quite well and it expressed his ideas nearly perfectly. He explained to Congress, and millions of American viewers, his American Jobs Act, the bill he is submitting in an effort to create more jobs. He explained numerous tax cuts that the government would provide to businesses for hiring new workers or for raising salaries. If a business hires someone who has been looking for a job for more than six months, the business will receive a $4,000 tax credit. Hiring veterans will be a reason to receive tax cuts as well. Obama wants more teens to have jobs and for more teachers to be hired, though he does not directly explain how this will happen. Another plan for spurring economic growth, while being productive, is to create jobs that include repairing and building public places such as schools and roads. He also mentions providing tax cuts for the middle class and extending unemployment insurance for one more year.
Although I am not an expert in the economy, nor even a budding economist, I can see how repairs and construction work would provide thousands of jobs as well as useful labor. I am all for teachers being hired as I believe that teaching is one of the most useful professions. Obama says that his bill calls for gradual reform to spending (providing the money for this program through cuts), tax reform, and reform of tax codes to help investing companies as opposed to companies that can afford lobbyists. The plan for spending cuts to reduce the deficit will also have to provide a plan to fund this Jobs Act. I support tax reform as well as all of the aforementioned plans for providing jobs.
I also think that this bill will go over rather well in Congress. It provides many plans that appeal to both parties, though Congressmen and women on the far sides of the spectrum seem likely to disagree since the bill is rather moderate. I also think that the bill will be successful in creating jobs, if passed, and I am in full support of Obama and his American Jobs Act.
Taylor Frazier
President Obama's job speech was well balanced between the interests of Republicans and Democrats. The speech focused on creating new jobs by offering tax breaks to businesses that hire umemployed and wounded veterans as well as those who have been out of work for more than six months. Obama also promised construction workers that they would be building and improving infrastructure, teachers would be placed back in the school systems, and young people would have an easier time finding a job. The president said that the %447 billion dollar cost of this plan would be paid for through spending cuts.
I believe that obama is promising things without results and that no real job improvement is going to come from this new act. i dont think Obama has thought through a feasible plan. he fails to come up with policies that address situations appropriately.
I am also very interested in the funding of this jobs act. while Obama says it will be paid for, it would seem as though it will cause future dillemas. another problem is the increase in taxes for the weathly and corporatoins which is not going to reside well with most republicans.
overall i thought it was an interesting proposal but one that did not look very promissing. if changes were made and jobs were created, it would be too few to tell. the president needs to take a step back, rethink his approach, and find a way to successfully stimulate the economy.
Sooriya Sundaram
President Obama’s job speech, I believe, was definitely successful based on technical merits. I thought the purpose was clearly stated, in a way that even non-political buffs could understand. I also appreciated the fact that he brought about numbers and statistics to thoroughly support his argument, allowing others to leave little wiggle room to respond. Some of the problems he declared needed fixing, I completely agreed with, including tax cuts for small businesses, renovated schools, and transportation construction. Obama was smart in focusing on issues with bipartisan support.
Although in general I disagree with the Democratic idea of punishing the richer class for working harder and earning more money, I have to say that I agree with the idea that asking for this class to pay a little more in order to fix the economic situation we’re in. He also made it a point to cut spending from Medicare and Medicaid, which represents the sacrifices Obama is making to make both parties happy. In the end, all politics aside, these sources of money would be the best place to start rebuilding the staggering economy.
As a member of Congress, I would be slightly uneasy if asked to pass this act. Obama’s previous promises, which were presented in his usual presidential manner, were not as successful as people would have hoped. If I was a Congresswoman, I would be thinking, “What’s different about THIS plan?” However, I would put the failed experiments in the past and focus on the future, and therefore give this American Jobs Act a chance. I believe Congress as a whole would move to support the act seeing as it looks like a clean-cut compromise between the two parties--it’s a give and take for both parties.
In an ideal world, I believe this plan would certainly be successful. However, I think that in order for this plan to be a success, both parties must put aside the interests of their party and focus on the interests of the country as a whole. If this is achieved, then it can be assumed that there is hope for the United States after all.
At a pivotal time in President Obama’s term it is a relief to see a sound proposal and a well delivered speech. He began by immediately calling on Congressman and women to put the needs of the American people before their own personal gains. I believe this was very important to point out. After a summer of political bicker and refusal to compromise, almost resulting in the default of the government, it is now more than necessary for politicians to settle on a way to fix the domestic issues.
Obama’s emphasis on the bipartisan support of the job’s act was crucial. Without the support of both Democrats and Republicans in a largely divided congress the act would have no chance of passing. A clear indication of the President’s willingness to reach across the aisle was the tax cuts incorporated into the American Jobs Act for businesses. By cutting payroll taxes in half ($80,000 worth of tax cuts for businesses with 50 employees earning average salary) small businesses are given room to grow, satisfying the republican ideals of supporting entrepreneurs, and thus supplying jobs for the unemployed.
The inclusion of renovating schools and saving teacher’s jobs was yet another much needed portion of the act. As President Obama said, “we can't expect our kids to do their best in places that are literally falling apart”. In an age where technology dominates everyday schools should be utilizing the most of it. The renovation and modernization of school would not only just be “nice” but rather crucial. Education has always been and always will be THE most important foundation for the success of the country in the future. At a time when competition with the rest of the world is at its peak the country should be hiring teachers and creating the absolute best learning environment for children instead of laying thousands of teachers off. Obama’s job act will not only help protect hundreds of thousands of teachers from being let go but also create tens of thousands more. Not only would this boost the quality of education but also relieve the burden of unemployment; killing two birds with one stone.
Furthermore the proposal of a construction stimulus for the infrastructure of the country will also provide millions of jobs. As Obama said, countries such as China are building newer airports and faster railroads while America is falling behind. Roads are congested while millions sit at home without a job. It is common sense to fix the first while helping the latter.
The Republicans criticize Democrats for their idea of “punishing the successful” but is it not moral for the rich, who have much greater ability and assets, to take a greater part in helping lift the country back onto its feet? If the rich were relieved of its taxes while more are piled onto the poor it would make very little sense at a time like this. A key in fixing the economy is for the people to spend. If the middle class, the largest group of Americans, are the people burdened with heavy taxes not only would it be hurting businesses but also the country as a whole. That’s why the a $1500 tax cut for middle class families as proposed by President Obama is critical.
I felt that President Obama’s speech was very well delivered and the American Jobs Act he proposed is the perfect plan needed right now. Not only does it help create jobs, improve education, and fix the infrastructure, it also has the necessary components for both liberals and conservatives to agree upon it. Furthermore, with only a year left in his term and the possibility of not being re-elected, this is a plan that Obama will be able to carry out. If the proposal had been too radical the capability of him actually carrying out the plan would be substantially lowered yet if the proposal lacked a significant impact it would be useless.
KAYLEIGH TOROK
Obama’s Job’s Speech presented many great ideas. He introduced the American Job Act, which included ways to get the economy working better again. He said that he wanted to cut payroll taxes on small businesses if they hire new employees or raise wages. I thought this was a great incentive for small businesses to create more jobs. Another way Obama intends to create jobs is by starting works projects, such as building and fixing highways, schools, and transportation systems. I really like this idea. It echoes those of FDR’s New Deal which put many Americans back to work while bettering the country at the same time. He plans on getting jobs back to teachers to better American education, as well. He went on to support a $4,000 tax credit for unemployed, as well as to those who hire veterans (who have trouble getting work when they return to the states).
I think Obama did a good job of appealing to both sides. He declared many times that Democrats and Republicans alike have supported similar plans. I think he should be able to pass it through Congress because it appeals to both sides. However, it may be tricky because the plan did not completely satisfy either party. Hopefully, people will realize that a compromise is in order, and appreciate what Obama is trying to do.
If this act is passed, I think job creation will go up and it will help the economy. I was very supportive of this plan. I agree with Obama’s idea to tax the upper-class. Taxing the billionaires in the country could significantly help the economy, and many are willing to make that sacrifice. I don’t know how Obama will get away with medicare reform, however, because cutting it will not be supported by the public. If the government is able to afford this act, I think it will be very beneficial to the economy.
If I have to hear “pass this jobs bill” one more time I will literally go crazy. Yeah obama you’re a good speech maker, but to be honest, I’ve heard all of what was said before. His American jobs act claims to be an all expense paid for God send that will cut payroll taxes in half, boost jobs through infrastructure construction, give companies a $4,000 credit to companies that hire someone who has been looking for a job for a certain amount of time, extend unemployment insurance, and provide for more small business tax cuts.
This is nothing more than another stimulus in disguise, one that will only increase the countries debt. It’s just another tax hike thrown at people who are probably already paying a good amount for taxes. What would be the smart thing to do is cut taxes and create incentives for private corporations to invest in job creation. Jobs are not created by the government; they are created in the private sector and in the famous words of Ronald Reagan, “the government needs to get out of our lives”. The country doesn’t need any more “help” from the government, they’ve done enough harm. What they should be doing is promoting exploration and the production of oil instead of “green jobs” like they have been doing. You want jobs; the oil industry will give you millions. Also, if you were making more money by sitting on your butt with unemployment insurance than when you were working even the simplest jobs, which one would you choose? Obviously people would choose the sitting around which is why extending unemployment insurance doesn’t do squat. It’s just more disincentives that make people even more lazy when it comes to finding jobs. What we need are incentives gosh darn it! We need to push the bottom of the classes as well as create an incentive for wealth. If you tax the h*ll out of the rich, then why would anyone want to bust their behind for their company when it just means that the more money the government will take. Obama is just encouraging people to stay at the status quo, keeping our countries economy at a standstill.
Sure the Democrats in congress will probably go for it seeing most of their reactions, but many Republicans have already voted down tax bills like this one. This is just disguised in a “Jobs Act” so that when some Republicans vote it down, obama can go out and campaign, saying that “oh well I tried to create more jobs, but the republicans shot it down.” So, no. I have no belief that this plan will work even though it may sound good through speech, its core ideas are nothing. Politics today is a circus, and this buffoon that people call president is the ringmaster.
Mike Thomas
AP Gov. Period 6
In President Obama’s job speech he addressed a number of things to the public on how the federal government could help drive and stimulate the economy of America. First, he addressed that the American Jobs Act will put money in the small business owners pocket through tax cuts on hiring or increasing wages of new workers. Second, he talked about putting construction workers back to work through creating public transit projects throughout America. This will help keep us up with China Obama stated. He talked about putting teachers back to work as well with re building schools. He continued about how he was going to put Americans back to work starting with Veterans. He also talked about putting working families with a $1500 tax cut.
I am glad to see president Obama is so confident in this job plans act. Although, some republicans will support that tax cuts on payroll and social security, but this will most likely be the only thing that will actually ever be carried out with this plan. He knows he has put GOP in a tough spot because now if they turn down the plan, the media will portray them as an obstruction in the creation of jobs.
In reality, all the government spending in this plan adds up to half a trillion dollars if not more. This spending is real and the savings is imaginary. Where is the money going to come from? Printing more money, not good. In my opinion, the federal government can’t rebuild the economy the people and businesses at the private sector have to do that. Businesses hire when there is demand, not when the president tells them to hire.
Obama really convinced me that he will fix the job crises and unemployment rate with his modernizing schools and construction projects, Medicare changes, tax credits for businesses when they hire new people, tax increases for the wealthier and corporations, unemployment extension, and more job opportunities for veterans. I felt like he is really trying to make the difference that the nation needs to improve. All of the changes he plans to make and things he wants to put into place seem like great options to achieve his goals. Creating more jobs and expanding the United States’ market with other countries will definitely lower unemployment. Also, his funding plan seems like it will be quite effective, as well.
I noticed that his points tried to appeal to the republicans too, not just democrats. Everyone is trying to make the unemployment rate decrease as made very clear during the republican debate we watched as well. And changed to Medicare and Medicaid will certainly be appreciated by them, considering they hate it so much (not that I’m a fan either, though). Obviously the Republicans in congress won’t agree with every aspect of his proposal (probably not all of the democrats either) but I believe that the majority of it will appeal to both parties.
I agreed with almost all of President Obama’s job speech. I feel that his way of speaking and the emotion he tries to put into his words has a really big effect on his persuasiveness, which is just amazing. In my opinion, he did an amazing job in presenting the different points in his speech. He’s a very influential person.
I strongly believe that President Obama did an excellent job in explaining what he strives to happen for the future of employment in this nation. Although, it will be an extremely difficult task to accomplish all of what he said. From the start, Obama made many positive points about the American Jobs Act. He told the public that he plans to cut the amount of taxes on payrolls for smaller business ventures in half. In addition, he made a huge emphasis on education, which I personally support and think is most important for everyone. He wants to modernize over 30000 schools, as well as make teachers out of jobs be able to go to work again. Similar to what took place after the Great Depression, Obama hopes to increase the number of transportation undertakings throughout the U.S. Lastly, one of the significant points that I heard him discuss was his pledge to put veterans to work. After all, they are the courageous men and women who serve the country, so I believe they should be able to get a job. I generally agreed with all of what he said, except I am not too sure how all of it will be achieved. Because the economy is so rough at this point, there is little hope in doing all of this. I anticipate that the speech will not make too much of an impact in Congress because everyone is very argumentative when it comes to the situation in the economy. It would be nearly impossible to sway the opinions of the opposite side since no one wants to make amends. Although I do not think that it will cause too much of a difference in Congress, I do feel that it will create jobs. Workers around the nation are now seeing what the President is trying to accomplish, and it seems that people are gaining more confidence in what is to happen. Since Obama made some very interesting yet realistic proposals, about many topics from education to veterans, I see this as a magnificent aid to our hurting country.
Maggie Senft
President Obama introduced his “American Jobs Act” during his speech on Thursday night. He claimed that this act would introduce new jobs right away for the American public, with its purpose being to put people back to work and to put money back in the American’s pockets. He proposed that there would be tax cuts for businesses to hire new workers, transportation construction, renovations to schools and hiring of teachers, tax credits for hiring of veterans, and changes to both Medicare and Medicaid.
Obama promised that “everything would be paid for,” which I believe is a myth because he later stated that he would come up with an upcoming plan for the $450 billion bill. I think that Obama is just trying to ignore the price and put it off until later, which could potentially hurt the economy even more. I think that Obama’s proposals were thoughtful, but I do not honestly think that they can be implemented. It seemed that Obama was “talking the talk” but will not be able to successfully “walk the walk” when it comes to pursuing these large promises. Rush Limbaugh compared Obama’s speech to a high school pep rally, of which I agree with completely. Obama would repeatedly state “Pass this bill and…” which only added fluff to the speech to appeal to the public viewers. I do, however, appreciate that he was not focused solely on pleasing the Democrats, but also appealed to the Republicans in order to get both sides to agree.
I think this will influence Congress to question this bill. Although it appealed to both Republicans and Democrats, it is a very hefty investment and could potentially fail to work out. If this were to be passed, I would hope that it would end up helping instead of hurting the economy and help create jobs. If Obama lives up to his great promises, then maybe the economy will finally improve.
Allison Saffiotti
President Obama, I felt, did an excellent job with creating his jobs plan. Not only will it help “provide a jolt to a stalled economy” but also appeal to both the democrats and republicans. I feel this is especially important after this summer’s debt debate. By using the ideas of both political parties, Obama will have a better chance of passing this bill. This act is also targeted towards working class Americans, unemployed Americans, poverty stricken citizens and veterans. I feel this group is the most important to target because they have been the most affected by economy.
Some of the main points proposed to help the economy in this act were tax credits for businesses that hire U.S veterans, tax cuts for the typical working family, a $4,000 tax credit for businesses who hire a person who has been looking for a job for more than six months, improvement in transportation and schools, and tax cuts for small businesses who hire new workers or raise wages. All five of these points, along with the others made by Obama really resonated with me. I feel his plan is the best way to tackle the nations growing deficit at this time.
I feel that this jobs act will influence members of congress to support and vote for this bill. The points made in this act reflect both the ideas of Republican and Democratic congress members. In fact, the president claimed most of his ideas in this act came from other members of congress. I feel that neither party has a reason to disagree with this act, nor should they do this. In order to tackle the growing deficit congress needs to act now.
I think this act will create more jobs for United States citizens. Many of the points in this bill give businesses the incentive to hire workers, no matter what their current financial situation is. Also, the reconstruction of major roadways will create multiple jobs for construction workers. Most importantly, the remodeling of schools as well as the initiative to keep and improve public schools will create even more jobs. Moreover, this comprehensive plan will create jobs in multiple fields which I feel is necessary for lowering the United States unemployment rate.
Obama’s Speech on Thursday addressed a key issue that has been concerning the United States for the past year. His answer to the problem is in the form of the American Jobs Act. The act has multiple sections with each one addressing a specific part of job creation. Obama first addressed the bipartisan effort; a Massachusetts Democratic Representative and a Texas Republican Representative worked together in creating the foundations of this act. Bipartisanship has been preached about for decades by politicians in Washington; it seems by now it is a given when introducing new acts and laws into Congress. In order to finance the American Jobs Act, Obama plans on asking Congress to increase the budget; the same budget that is having $1.5 trillion cut out by December. The American Jobs Act plans on cutting payroll taxes by half and giving tax deductions to small businesses that increase the wages of their employees. The act will also fund renovations for roads, bridges, and schools around the nation. A total of 35,000 schools are receiving financial aid from the act to renovate. The infrastructures applying for funding will have to answer for two questions: how much money will be required and what will it do for the economy. If the applicants can pass those two questions, then money will be allocated from the American Jobs Act. By renovating numerous projects around the nation, Obama plans on creating jobs, thus giving Americans the confidence to purchase goods and services at the same rate as before. Working class families will be given a $1,500 tax cut if the Act is passed. The tax cuts are an idea that I greatly support; I truly believe that consumers will spend more with this extra money on hand. However, in the case that they do not, then the money may be used to save up for a child’s college tuition or retirement money. Either way, the tax cut money will end up in the American economic system. This amount of money given to each family will ultimately benefit the economy especially with the DOWJONES dropping to less than 11,000 points on Monday. The implementation of this act will also seek to find jobs for war veterans and put thousands of teachers back into classrooms. This is a monumental task for the nation considering the veterans unemployment is almost double the national average. The main issue with passing the Act will be the funding aspect. As the United States experienced a credit rating downgrade over the summer as a result of the budget ceiling debates, so will the debate regarding the funding for this Act be prolonged and potentially hazardous for the economy. This speech definitely had an impact on the members of Congress, but again the funding for this Act will be the main topic of debate. The American Jobs Act certainly has benevolent goals, but the logistics to carry out all of the plans outlined in the Act is near impossible for Congress to solve. I believe only parts of this Act will be enacted. If President Obama and Congress progress into serious discussions regarding the American Jobs Act, then I will consider contacting my local and state representatives.
With elections right around the corner, President Obama seemed very enthusiastic about the future of jobs in America. He started off by proposing a payroll tax cut which would bring in $240 billion. One of the biggest things the President discussed was about transportation infrastructure. He reasoned that other major economic powers, like China, are getting ahead by creating jobs through transportation infrastructure. Highways all over America could use fixing, creating many jobs for Americans. This idea may come under fire from Republicans as it calls for a great deal of immediate investments. Another proposal by Obama was improving schools around the country. At least 35,000 schools would provide jobs as they seek dire attention to improve their facility. Appealing to the National Education Association, the President stressed the need for America to be hiring teachers, not laying them off. Another proposal was the hiring of veterans. The unemployment rate of veterans in this country is appalling, and Obama wants to create new opportunities for them. America needs to create jobs for them, especially since so many are overseas. There must be a source of jobs for when young men and women return. All these proposals came from the President’s presentation of a new bill called the American Jobs Bill. He urged Congress to ‘pass this jobs bill’—his leading motto throughout his speech. The bill would cost about $447 billion dollars, and it would be paid for by the cuts made in the summer. While stating ‘there should be no controversy’ about this bill, even the President know some issues will come under fire. This is one huge reform all packed into one bill, not the way Republicans usually like to run. When talking about this bill, I support Obama’s decision to create jobs through highway infrastructure. It is no lie that America’s roads are in desperate need of fixing, and even new roads could be created. This would be an excellent way to spur jobs throughout the country. As congress will be approving, or denying, the bill, members were definitely affected by Obama’s speech. In what way, remains to be a mystery. While the overtly optimistic President stated there should be no controversy, this is politics. There are going to be member of Congress who will stick by this bill the whole way, and others who want to rip it to pieces. Though, as Obama stated: the American people don’t care about politics. They just want better opportunities in a country that is supposed to open new doors.
Rachael Robitaille
I found President Obama’s jobs speech to be one that instilled hope in the millions of Americans watching. The question that remains, is if that hope is falsely experienced or not. I was pleasantly surprised at the refreshing words spoken by Obama, and his determination to “stop the political circus.” I thought it profound for a president to admit that the federal government has not been doing all that it should, and that the media and even some candidates are more interested in the votes and the poll changes than change for the American people, especially one that is no doubt thinking about his own upcoming campaign as the incumbent.
The President affirmed that this American Jobs Act would not only create more jobs for teachers, construction workers, veterans, and the long term unemployed, but also create tax breaks for employers as well as cut taxes in half for small-business owners. Seeing firsthand the cuts in teaching positions made in Cheshire High School, I am very much in favor of this aspect of the bill. Veterans also should have no trouble receiving jobs when they enter back into this country, in return for all that they have already given. I completely agree with him when he says that students will be more apt to possess a willingness to learn if their schools present them with enthusiasm and become more modern and repaired. He also promised that the devastated roadways of the country would be fixed, thus putting construction workers to work. The idea of more “made in America” products being distributed to other nations was a valid point and the fulfillment of that alone should create more revenue for the nation.
My only fear with this bill is how truthful President Obama is and can be when he says that it will not add to the current deficit, and instead will be paid for as part of the new debt plan that was put into law this past July. While the repetition of the phrase “You should pass this jobs bill right away” got to be redundant and almost hackneyed, I do believe that the president may have convinced Congress that this bill is truly the only way to get Americans back to work and feeling confident in their government once again. Only time will tell for certain how well this plan will work, but I do not believe there is one American who isn’t willing to see their nation prosper.
Surprisingly, I am very supportive of President Obama’s jobs plan. I think his plan is very close to what the country needs to jump start the economy and getting the economy to grow organically without government intervention.
One of the main problems with the original stimulus plan was no t the massive price tag but rather where the money was spent. Statistics show that the infrastructure spending is extremely effective in jump starting an economy. The original stimulus package include very little of the $787 billion for infrastructure spending. Instead, the stimulus bill allowed state governments to use the money to supplement the decrease in tax revenues to sustain the pre-recession levels of spending. In other words, the stimulus act was a band aid for state governments to help temporarily balance their budgets. The stimulus act did nothing to actual improve the economy but simply gave states an excuse to have a balanced budget.
This stimulus bill is different. (Let’s actually call it a stimulus bill instead of the American Jobs Act because that is was it really is.) First, the stimulus bill is focused on tax cuts. Tax cuts are the fastest way to help an economy even if they are not the most effective. Tax cuts work immediately to lower costs for both corporations and consumers. The one thing I would change in this bill would to increase the number of companies who are eligible for the tax reductions. By limiting the number of businesses eligible you are making it harder for the tax cuts to work.
Next, I believe that the infrastructure spending will help to improve the economy. Infrastructure spending is the most effective form of economic recovery but is slower than tax cuts. That is why a good balance between tax cuts, short-term, and spending, long-term, will help to improve our economy. If you look at our economy over the last 60 years we have been the most successful because we had the lowest taxes and the best infrastructure. By effectively using these two proposals we can truly put America back to work.
I really enjoyed Obama’s speech. I find him very easy to listen to and follow. I thought that with this speech was effective in that it connected with both the Republican and Democratic parties. After my conference in DC on civil discourse I was extremely aware of his point to end the “political circus”. With an issue as pressing as this, Congress really needs to come together.
Obama made several proposals to create jobs. Some examples: tax credits for hiring veterans, infrastructure rehabilitation to create construction jobs, small businesses get a tax cut if they hire new workers or raise wages, tax breaks for companies that hire new workers, and cutting payroll taxes in half for working Americans and small businesses. I think it is obvious that these plans to create jobs would be successful.
The number of jobs that are created by this plan definitely will have some effect. The number of unemployed construction workers is outstanding and the
In terms of paying for the American Jobs Act, I absolutely support the plan to have fair taxes, making the wealthy pay their fair share. The fact that this isn’t already the way things are is beyond me. Warren Buffet even said that people of his income should be paying more taxes. Its not like the rich are going to become not rich simply because taxes become fair.
I think this act proposes realistic ideas and members of Congress should definitely come together to work on passing it.
Miranda Scaramozza
The American Jobs Act that Obama was promoting has many parts to it. The act will create more jobs and provide tax breaks to many Americans. It will also help to jolt the economy and put teachers back to work. Veterans, construction workers, students, small businesses and the long-term unemployed will all benefit from this act if it is passed.
I support Obama’s idea of putting to work as many unemployed construction workers as possible. The private construction companies would make the much needed improvements to roads and schools. Another thought of Obamas that I strongly agreed with was that wealthy Americans and large successful corporations need to pay their fair share of taxes. Both these ideas would help not only many Americans and their families, but the entire country and the economy.
I believe it will help create jobs because Americans of all different job backgrounds and economical means will benefit. Whether it be due to tax breaks or working on government projects in infrastructure, many citizens will be put back to work.
This speech will definitely affect members of Congress. Americans of all different backgrounds will benefit under the American Jobs Act. Many companies will benefit greatly by hiring the long-term unemployed or veterans. Teachers will be hired rather than laid off, which will affect tons of student and their families. In addition, middle class families won’t have their taxes raised and tax relief will be given to small business owners. The different networks of Americans that would benefit from the passing of this act will reach out and express their support to their representatives.
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Matt Mendonca
In his speech, President Obama addressed present members of Congress as well as his fellow Americans on a topic of significant importance which catches the attention of countless citizens. This topic, being the new American Jobs Act drew much interest and had many waiting to criticize the president on presenting a non-successful address to the public. However, I feel as though to many peoples’ surprise there was nothing to really castigate during Obama’s speech. As always, the President came out poised and ready to persuade and seemed confident that what he was saying was the complete truth.
In his speech, President Obama explained the general idea of the act, which is to immediately introduce new jobs to the American public for those unemployed or who have been laid off and to put money back into citizens’ pockets rather than digging further in debt. He stated that the people believed in an America where if everyone does their fair share with their job and are loyal to their company, that they would be rewarded with a respective salary and good benefits. For decades, that compact has begun to erode and it has become harder to make a living. This act was made to change this and restore the fairness and security that used to define America.
President Obama did an exceptionally witty thing when creating an act with bipartisan views that both democrats and republicans alike can see benefits in. In this way, it breaks down the political tension and disagreement between parties that has been recently going on. It even included proposals brought up previously by republicans themselves so it would be ironic for republicans to criticize their own plans and views. Initially, the act will create more jobs for construction workers, veterans, teachers, and more jobs for long-term unemployment. It will also provide a tax break for companies who hire new workers and it will cut payroll taxes in half for every working American and every small business. It was made clear that Obama was in favor of repairing and modernizing railroads and routes as well as good schools which every child deserves. It was also made apparent that jobs should be available for veterans who risk their lives to protect this country when they get home. Even people who cannot find a job within 6 months will give companies a 4000 dollar tax credit if hired by them and extends unemployment insurance for another year. Also, the President promised a deficit plan cutting government spending beyond the $1 trillion dollars over the decade decided on in July, and reducing the national deficit.
I support Obama completely in this speech and agree with these proposals which I believe will be successful. I think that just like me, members of congress will be highly influenced by his ideas. One reason is because it touches upon both republican and democratic ideals and will definitely create jobs for unemployed Americans and spark a sense of hope that has been lost in our situation of debt and political and economic crisis.
Lexi Koukos
President Obama gave his speech on jobs Thursday night. I believe that it was well balanced in the sense that he considered both Democrat and Republican views and interests. He stated that this act would introduce new jobs for the American public by giving tax breaks to businesses, with the overall purpose being to get people back in the working environment and to create a way to put money back in the american peoples pockets. The other subjects that were proposed by president Obama were changes to both Medicare and Medicaid, tax credits for hiring of veterans, transportation construction, renovations to schools and hiring of teachers, and the struggle to find a job would be made easier.
Obama also stated that his plan which costs $450 billion dollar would be paid by spending cuts. He said that “everything would be paid for,” but after his previous statement “everything” clearly will not be paid for given our countries recent crisis. I believe that Obama’s plan is not too promising and that with no real proof of it being successful its a slim shot. This means that it could certainly hurt our economy even more so than it already is. I feel that Obama’s made proposals that were thoughtful, however I do not feel that they will be beneficial to our country. While Obama is not only focused on the Democrats point of view, he also focused on the Republicans thoughts as well. However, a problem may arise when the topic of increasing taxes on the wealthy and corporations comes about. Overall i feel that this will in fact influence Congress to question and look more closely at this bill. Its ideas were influenced by both Democratic and Republican views and opinions, but it still may have some obstacles to go through before it can be passed. If it were to be passed, it may or may not help our economy. I believe that it can help our economy in a great way if it is gone about in the right way. In the end the one thing this country needs more than anything is a leader with a plan to put this country back on its game.
I thought that Obama’s speech on job creation was influential and certainly impressive. He may not have always been successful in his political endeavors, but then again, after having Bush as president for eight years, Obama has been doing a good job in his actions. He is trying his best to restore the country. This jobs speech is an effective example of his efforts. Obama makes it seem in his speech that Americans are taking the position of a bystander in some ways. The country is not helping itself or receiving any benefits, because some just sit and watch the country suffer. Obama encourages the public to “do something for the economy.” To not watch their jobs lose value. It is essential that we establish security in our country with the help of workers and businesses rather than the government in Washington. The government has already done what they felt was right and it has gotten to the point where they were almost shut down last year. I think we have learned that we cannot always rely on the government. We must rely on ourselves.
Obama states that the American Jobs Act is simple and that it will put more people back at work and have them potentially earn more money, while cutting payroll tax in half for small businesses and their workers. He plans on creating more jobs for those that have been laid off, or unemployed for a very long term. This seems like an outstanding plan in my eyes, and even if it is not seen through completely, it is an efficient plan that has capability to improve infrastructure, education, and construction in the country. Another great idea was the installation of an independent fund for private dollars and loans to see over construction. Obama says his two points of criteria for this idea is to see how badly a construction plan is needed, for example on bridges, and also how it will affect our economy’s improvement.
Obama makes it a point to improve education. With teachers being laid off, he truly emphasizes that with the passing of this bill, he wants to see teachers back in their classrooms teaching students to have only the best future possible ahead of them. Obama is aware that America is not in its best state. He knows that the younger population is in danger of not having success. The fact that Obama is aware though shows that he cares for our country’s stability. If he is not successful in all plans or bills, fine, but at least he is trying to improve the lifestyles of Americans. He is trying to make paying taxes and creating jobs a more achievable task to do.
At one point in the speech, Obama says that even some Republicans in the House agreed with his plan to create jobs; to stop the “political circus” and start building on the economy with this act. President Obama can create jobs. He strives to provide for the well-being of America and wants to provide for the people so they can find more inner confidence in their own jobs and the position of the economy.
Tiffany Wang
I believe that President Obama made a great, motivating job speech to Congress. This is what the public needed to hear, after being stuck in an economic slump for so long. His speech was smooth, and easy to follow. He proposed the American Jobs Act that Thursday night, which has been approved by both Democrat and Republicans, and many who were present at the speech. The purpose of the American Jobs Act is to put more people back to work and more money in the pockets of those who are working.
Obama said that he wanted to get the economy going again, by giving tax cuts to businesses that hire new workers or raise their wages. Veterans also deserve a job when they come home from serving the country, therefore I think it’s fair that businesses also get tax breaks when they hire veterans. He also stressed the importance of modernizing schools and creating more construction jobs. The future of our nation starts with the education of the youth. If there are no teachers to teach the youth, how can the country rise again? So hiring more teachers and modernizing schools is definitely important to decrease the unemployment rate, and to prepare for the future. He said that creating a world-class transportation is what made this country an economic superpower. So at a time when our unemployment rate is at a high, it would make sense to get these construction projects going to create a spur in the economy. The people of the country have to make sacrifices, to benefit the nation as a whole. Yes, it is unfair to tax more on the wealthier, upper class, but in the end their taxes will go to the unemployed and government funded projects to decrease the unemployment rate. Obama even proposed changes to both medicare and Medicaid, which I’m sure made people happy. President Obama also promised a deficit plan cutting government spending beyond the $1 trillion dollars over the decade decided on in July, and reducing the national deficit.
President Obama gives hope to the citizens of America, assuring to the public that he has a plan to bring us out of this slump.
Monica DiLeo
I thought that President Obama did a great job with the content of his proposal to the nation. While it wasn’t his best speech in my opinion (from an outlook that focuses only on speechmaking), the American Jobs Act is a realistic bill that will put the United States on the right path. Although I would have, in an ideal world, liked to see a bill that was a little more bold and liberal, this is the kind of plan that would actually get passed in the House and Senate. The American Jobs Act had measures that appealed to both sides of the political spectrum, and if Speaker of the House John Boehner knew what was good for the country he would encourage this bill to be passed. I just hope that Congressmen and Congresswomen keep the best interests of the country in mind, rather than what they can do to advance themselves politically.
Now for the actual content of the plan. I was a HUGE fan of President Obama’s proposal to hire construction workers to work on this country’s infrastructure, which is falling apart. It’s a win-win situation for everyone: the country gets more advanced and newer infrastructure, construction workers have jobs, and money goes back into the economy because since the construction workers will have an income, they will spend more. It has an FDR/New Deal feel, and those policies were ones that I firmly believe government in the present and the future should apply. Along the same lines, I also think his proposal to renovate 35,000 schools will be highly beneficial for the country. It will give more teachers jobs, and will also give contractors and construction workers jobs in renovating the buildings. And, most importantly, it will greatly enhance the education that countless students will benefit from. Education is another very important issue to me, I believe that getting a good education is an essential foundation for the rest of your life, and that every child, regardless of socioeconomic factors, has the right to a good education.
This plan also cuts payroll taxes in half for small businesses if they hire new employees or raise wages. While I personally do not think tax cuts are always the way to go, I appreciate this measure in the plan because I think that it will appeal to Republicans in Congress, which is essential for this plan to be passed. Another measure in the plan involving taxes was giving a tax credit to businesses that hire veterans. The unemployment rate for veterans in their twenties returning from overseas is an astonishing 27%. This is an issue that needs to be addressed, and I’m very glad that President Obama included this in the plan. Finally, a $4000 tax credit was introduced that would be given to businesses that hire people who have been looking for a job for 6+ months. This will cut down on long-term unemployment, which is very important for the country to continue reducing the unemployment rate. Again, while I do not usually think that tax cuts are the way to stimulate the economy and reduce unemployment, I can appreciate them in this plan because that’s what is going to get this bill through the highly partisan House and Senate. However I was so glad that President Obama called on the wealthiest Americans and the biggest corporations to pay their fair share. Compared to the percentage of a middle class income that goes to paying taxes, the wealthiest Americans pay so much less than they should. The example of Warren Buffet paying more in taxes than his secretary was referenced, which I think illustrates the point perfectly. It doesn’t matter that Warren Buffet is paying capital gain instead of income taxes, if he’s making money, even if it is off of investments, he should be paying just as much if not more than his secretary.
In summation, I think that the American Jobs Act will put our country on the path that it needs to be on for full economic recovery, and I really hope that Congress will agree and pass this bill for the well-being of the nation.
Emily Smith
One of the proposals that Obama suggests in his Job Plan speech is the American Jobs Act. Obama claims that the plan will be supported by Democrats and Republicans alike. He plans to create jobs, such as construction workers, teachers, and anyone unemployed, while at the same time increasing the income of those with jobs. Also, he claims it will provide a tax break for both employers and employees. He promises to cut taxes for small business owners if they create new jobs, hire new employees, and higher wages. But, if Obama plans to create jobs such as making bridges, roads, and public transportation, while at the same time making tax cuts to small business owners, where is the federal government going to get the money for these renovation projects? How, if we are in insurmountable debt in our country, does Obama expect this to happen? He proposed that he will decide whether or not the public works project is to be completed based on the “need” for it in our country. Who gets to decide how important or unimportant each public works project is? Without proper procedure and lack of funding, this does plan seems implausible.
Also, Obama claims that the job plan will employ more teachers. If the government is already paying to build bridges and public transportation and giving tax cuts to small business owners, where does he supposed we will get the money to pay teachers salaries? In my opinion, it is more important to limit tax raises than work on projects that may be convenient, but nonetheless unnecessary. Finally, Obama proposed job benefits to veterans and other people with disabilities along with offering to hand out tax credits to employers that hire people who have “been looking for a job for over 6 months”.
Although I do not oppose these proposals, I fail to see how it is possible with the state that our economy is in. If, and only if, Obama is able to lower the deficit our country is in, would I support his generous tax cuts and job offers. One point that I did strongly agree with was the spending cuts Obama mentioned, especially that of reforming Medicare and Medicaid. On the other hand, I disagree with Obama’s assumption that the wealthy citizens of America would be willing to give more money through taxes to help the economy. If an American citizen works for their money, they have a right to o what they want with it. I think that Congress will agree with the proposal on the grounds of creation of more jobs, but the means of doing so may need to be clarified – money doesn’t grow on trees and until we can come up with the money to take such action, we should not. If we are able to come up with a stable enough economy that can handle job creation on such a large scale, then I believe this plan would be extremely beneficial to our country.
If I learned in 2008 that Obama would be giving this speech, I would be in disbelief at how much ground the Republicans have gained on Obama. I was pleasantly surprised by Obama’s speech and liked it much more than I expected to. I am strongly in favor of hiring Veterans returning from the wars in the Middle East, and I am glad that it received a standing ovation from both the Democrats and Republicans. I am iffy on providing tax cuts to businesses who hire long term unemployed, as it sounds like a good idea on paper, but do not know how it will work out in real life. In addition to that, I am skeptical to giving tax cuts for businesses hiring underprivileged youth as well, as it seems like a borderline affirmative action plan.
The average school in the United States is over 40 years old, and I strongly believe that many should be refurbished and renovated. However, I do not believe that it is the Federal Government’s job to head the renovation. Taxpayers in Cheshire should not be funding the building of a computer lab in Tampa Florida. I believe the states should take control of the renovations, not the Federal government. I wish Obama gave more logistics as to what the true jobs plan is, rather than spending so much time stressing for it to be passed. This speech takes some of the burden off of the President’s back and puts it back onto Congress, on whether they want to approve the plan or not. Overall, I am skeptically optimistic for the plan, if some key parts are modified I will certainly support it (I can’t believe I said that).
Jeffrey Lee
President Obama’s jobs plan seems to be very effective and I back up his plan. His job plan is very ingenious in that he can economically grow the nation’s economy without intervention for the government. He planes to fix the jobs plan by cutting taxes.
Cutting taxes is economically beneficial because it allows companies to hire new works and allow consumers to spend more because the reduce taxes lowers the cost of all products. This American Jobs plan also creates jobs such as those in the construction of schools highways bridges, and transportation services. Also companies that hire, those who have struggled to find jobs will receive a tax reduction of 4,000.
However, to cover this jobs act of $450 billion Obama says he has a plan which he will release at a later date. This may lead to skepticism because he does not really elaborate on how it will be paid, just it will be paid for. This may added to the economic deficit but we shall see how this plays out.
This bill also reduces taxes to the average working family in America by $1,500. Many republicans and democrats have supported bills such as this and I think it will be successfully if this jobs act is passed. Finally I am interested on how this plan will be treated in congress. I do not this it will be passed but only time will tell.
Eric Price
I was pleased with the presentation of the American Jobs Act. I believe that this Act will be a lot more beneficial than past acts past during Obama's time as President. The American Jobs Act is offering many tax cuts for many of the small businesses, about 50 employees could equal $80,000 in tax cuts. This Act is also offering about $4,000 tax cuts for hiring people who have been unemployed for more than 6 months. Tax cuts are going to play a decent factor in trying to stimulate the economy. These new Tax cuts will also help veterans by offering tax cuts to businesses who hire retired veterans. Through these tax cuts the economy will slower begin to recover.
Another plan with the Jobs Act is offering more employment. The Act offers jobs to repair bridges, railroads, and highways to many people and construction workers. The Act also offers jobs to repair schools and put many teachers back to work. These job plans are good to help the large unemployment problem in the U.S. These jobs will also offer comfort for many in this economy who will start to spend on businesses again. I agree with all the proposed ideas to help this economy. The only thing i have to offer is that he should offer these tax cuts to a broader range of business to help the economy even more. This Act will no doubt split congress a little, but republicans are put in a tough spot in the creation of jobs. A lot of the ideas do appeal to both sides of congress, but even those who don't agree could be blamed for not allowing the growth of job structure.
In the end i believe the way to pay for the American Jobs Act will be a little slow to take of because it targets the wealthy specifically and entitlement reform, but it will undoubtedly work in the long run. This Act is a good way to create many jobs across the country with government programs and now that smaller businesses feel more comfortable hiring and spending more with the new tax cuts.
While the Americans may have found temporary hope and relieve in President Obama’s job creation speech, the actualization of the American Jobs Act is still in doubt. Obama seemed very confident in his proposal of the American Jobs Act, and he did make some great points. He proposed lowering taxes on payrolls for small business ventures in half if they hire new employees, motivating businesses to start hiring again. He put a heavy emphasis on education, and how we need to rebuild schools and stop laying off teachers. Education is crucial at times like this, like President Obama pointed out, we need to focus on education on the futures of America for us to compete against other nations. He plans to hire back the teachers, and fix over 3000 schools in order to promote education and job creation. He also encourages companies to hire veterans and people who have not been employed in the past 6 months for $ 40,000 tax credit, which would reduce unemployment rate all across the nation. His proposal of a construction stimulus for the infrastructure of the country seemed promising. The amount of work needed for his transformational construction of the transportation system will indeed create countless jobs all across the nation. In addition, Obama plans on cutting taxes for the middle class, and raise the taxes on the wealthy. While investigating the loops hole on taxes of the wealthy seems reasonable, I don’t believe that we should “punish” the wealthy people for being, well, rich. President Obama’s speech was indeed inspiring, and there is no doubt that he is a great public speaker. He presented the bill with much confidence and support. However, how will all of this be paid? Although Obama ensured the people that this bill will not increase nations debt, it is still doubtful how he will be able pay for this bill, and how he will be able to put it in action. I agree with President Obama that now it is the time that we unite and focus on fixing this nation, but seeing the conflicts in Congress over the economic issue, will he be able to push this act through and get America working again?
Jesse Eddy
President Obama’s job speech was full of proposals some good some bad. In his jobs bill he proposes that they extend unemployment insurance for another year which I find to be a bad idea that gives people another reason not to find work. A person with a limited amount of help from the government will more actively look for work because they know they cannot live off of the government even if it is only for a small amount. Obama believes that by giving these people money it helps to stimulate the economy because they spend it on basic necessities but if the government didn’t give this money to the poor than they could keep the money with the taxpayers and the tax payers could stimulate the economy with the extra spending money they could keep instead of unwillingly give to someone else who should be finding a job. Although this one part had bad proposals others such as giving tax credits to companies that hire new workers and cutting taxes for the middle-class are very good proposals that would stimulate the economy and get people back to work. I didn’t like Obama’s plan to get the money to pay for this huge bill though because he believes they should raise taxes on the wealthier but doesn’t take into account the hard work wealthy people put in to earn the wealth and these people do not deserve to have more money taken from them just because of their successful hard work. Obama planned to make jobs by spending money to rebuild America which would be a great idea if we had money to spend, but with the deficit America has even if he says he will have it all paid for the United States needs to be looking at other ways to create jobs that will cost less, an example would be repealing laws that make doing business in America not welcoming. The final part of Obama’s proposal that I believed to be a great idea was his proposal on tax credits to companies who hire Veterans. Although there are many great proposals in Obama’s job bill I do not believe that his speech will sway enough of congress to pass this vote because of the very bad proposals mixed in with the good ones. Obama’s job bill will create jobs but it won’t create the jobs that the United States need right now it won’t create jobs that will be permanent and it won’t add many jobs in the private sector.
Trace Lange
President Obama's speech last week was a great introduction to the new American jobs act. I feel that president Obama's speech was very well written and read, Obama is a good speaker and it was very easy to fallow his words and keep up with what he was saying. Now on to the content of this speech, democrat or republican I think we can all agree no matter what kinda fix we put on the debt and job crisis here in a America, no matter what it is as long as it happens soon. The American Jobs Act did just that. This bill will get the ball rolling seeing as it is very likable for both political parties, the passing of this bil will turn over a new leaf in this time of economic down turn. I think President Obama had good support from rebplucians as well as his fello democrats, compromise my friends is the key to success and that is what this bill does. It compromises for the better good of this nation and that is what we need. President Obama did a really nice job drafting a piece of legislature that will please both sides. If and when this bill is pasted America will have more jobs and the start of economic growth, this is just what we need to get the ball Rolling so to speak. This bill is a win win for both sides and will still lead to bigger and better things. It's a good bill. Obama did well on this one.
Bella Guo
Obama's speech focused on one of the major topics troubling American voters- jobs. He proposed an American Job Act. This act, according to Obama, would be entirely paid for, so that it wouldn't add to the deficit, and would also strengthen the infrastructure of America, by helping veterans, teachers, and building and improving bridges, roads, highways, and other forms of transportation. In addition, small businesses would get tax cuts for hiring new employees, and the loopholes that the wealthy have been slipping through for years will be closed.The president plans to pay for this by taxing the wealthy, cutting spending, and reforming welfare programs.
While this sounds great on paper, there are potential problems with it. For example, the Republicans might not like the idea of taxing the wealthy. I dislike the idea that these jobs will only be temporary. There will come a time when the US either runs out of money to fix public transportation and schools, or there won't be enough work to do. If this plan is put into action, we run the risk of going into an even worse economic downturn once this act ends/is no longer effective. One thing that I really like about this act is that it helps small businesses grow, while helping the unemployed at the same time. However, Herbert Hoover once tried something similar, the trickle down idea, with disastrous effects.
This act, does, however, contain aspects both parties will like, such as the helping of war veterans, and the tax breaks given to small businesses. Therefore, I think it, or a slightly watered down version of it will eventually pass Congress. Unfortunately, depending on how watered down it is, it might not help create that many jobs. Obama, being the great public speaker he is, definitely had an impact on whether the act passes or not, so his speech was not wasted.
Courtney McQuade
I agree with most of the proposals President Obama made in his speech. In his “American Jobs Act”, he has laid forth a plan to better our economy by creating much needed jobs for everyday people, including the repair and restoration of over 35,000 of our country’s schools (better the education of our children and therefore better preparing them for the workforce when they grow up). Also included in the bill is the building of faster and better methods of transportation which will employ thousands of construction workers and help the country catch up to other countries in this area of development. President Obama has also planned out many ways to entice companies into hiring new employees such as, tax credits/cuts for companies who hire new employees or raise the salaries of existing employees, a $4,000 tax credit to companies who employ a worker having been collecting unemployment for at least six months, and tax credits to hire veterans. One idea that I completely agree with is the notion of raising taxes on the rich, and I think the only reason republicans are so against this idea is because they are the rich and they insist on being greedy with their money. If the rich has more to give then why shouldn’t they? It has not been successful to tax people who can’t afford it and pay IRS agents to chase them down when they don’t pay. It would be much more affordable for everyone if the government simply raised taxes on the rich in exchange for lowering them on the middle-class/poor. The proposed bill votes to get rid of loopholes and deductions that allow the rich to pay fewer taxes than they can afford, and make them pay a higher tax. This does not propose the government clean them out, but that they pay their fair share in relation to their income. Another successful thing about this speech is that, as President Obama has pointed out, it is a bill that both democrats and republicans can agree on, I think it may be something that Congress will find agreeable to. Overall, I agree with Obama’s new jobs plan and I hope it is a success.
Pat Winiarski
President Obama's speech i feel nailed the point he was trying to make, create jobs now. The American jobs act proposal seems to be supported by both sides as president Obama said, 50 republicans do approve of it and most importantly it will create jobs. This proposal also will be paid for entirely so it shall not be adding to the on going deficit that America is faced with, this act will rather create a reverse affect of decreasing and begin to chip away at the deficit slowly as the economy begins to reconstruct itself with the creation of jobs. The American jobs act will create jobs for thousands of construction workers by reconstructing roads,bridges,airports,and railroads. 35,000 schools will be renovated and updated to better standards, thousands of teachers then will also regain their jobs. Teenagers will also benefit from this bill with the creation of summer jobs, veterans will benefit by being hired as a way for business owners to earn extra tax credits. Businesses will be earning hundreds of tax cuts and credits from this act by doing things such as hiring unemployed workers that have been looking for a job for over 6 months, as much as $4000 tax credit. This act also helps re regulate the controversial tax breaks and loop holes that the rich and big business owners get. President Obama made it clear that everyone will pay their fair share including the upper class. In all i do feel that this proposal is solid because it meets certain aspects that both parties agree on and that it will also more importantly help average Americans get back on their feet, so i do support it completely and i feel that it should be passed just like President Obama said,right now.
Obama’s speech on Thursday addressed how key issues concerning the American public will be resolved through the American Jobs Act. In this jobs act he proposed: transportation construction, renovated schools, tax cuts for small businesses, tax credits for hiring veterans, changes to Medicare and Medicaid, and greater taxes on the wealthy and large corporations.
Personally, Obama’s plans and speech worked for me. I believe he truly did put all of his effort in to appeal to both parties and independents. His American Jobs Act has brought everyone back to reality and realize they need to create a plan of action to solve the crisis in America. I support his plan and believe in our given situation it is the best resolution. Personally, agree with tax cuts and believe it will help stimulate the economy because the tax cut money will eventually wind back up in the American economy. And increased taxes on the wealthy and corporations are a necessary in order to maintain a well balanced economy, even if opponents say otherwise.
Hopefully Obama’s speech will be influential enough on Congress for them to take action rather than sit by and observe. From my understanding, this speech should most certainly help spark conversation in Congress as to what to do. But it may be difficult for Congress to once again come to agreement on the budget of the balance, however this time I should appeal to more people of both political parties. Hopefully this act will pass or be improved, as a result help American come back on top on the world economy.
Angela Yang
Obama's Job Speech to me was actually delightfully surprising. He was able to instill confidence in the democrats, and address directly the people that are suffering from the American economy. His overall tactic in his speech was very appealing to the citizens in general. Obama, spoke out against the interests of politics and for actually solving the nation's problems. Obama then proposes a job plan that has been supported by both parties, and thus quickly passed through congress. He is taking a route that is not far left nor right, and also a plan that largely agrees with the Republican Party.
Obama's Job Plan outlines nearly all of the actions that the Republicans have supported, and he speaks about creating jobs, supporting tax cuts for small businesses, improve public transportation and well as public education. These are all points that the Republican Party cannot argue against. With this speech, Obama has driven the Grand Old Party into a corner, and the GOP with it's many diversified candidates are still seemingly squabbling with one another. Obama's speech seems to evoke the idea that this single plan will suddenly revive the American economy, if it were not for Obama's little significant action in office, his speech would have been greeted with greater enthusiasm. However, due to his past run, there are many people that are highly spectacle that this Job Plan will immediately “solve all the problems in America”. The Job Plan has done what it was meant to do: instill confidence in the democratic party as well as the people and also to drive the republicans to a point where they must rally against a dew candidates instead of the currently largely divided republican team. They must quickly come up with a reasonable plan that will refute Obama's Job Plan.
Obama's Job plan was largely effective, he spoke in even terms, appealing to patriotism and thus winning much of the democrats confidence. Unlike the Republican Debate, Obama held onto his class and never once returned an insult to the Republican candidates. He actually moved in the opposite direction by appealing to the republican side. This overall speech was a great political move for the democratic party, despite that what Obama promises might never see the light of day. However this new Job Plan does seem highly promising.
Overall I believe that President Obama’s speech was presented very well. Though I predict that he will have a hard time getting his American Jobs Act passed. Despite the fact that the Act was formed based on a format that would be appealing to both parties, mostly focused on the republicans. But I remain skeptical as to whether the republicans will vote for the Act, despite what it offers. The American Jobs Act states that small businesses will be granted a tax cut for small businesses that employ workers or increase wages and by next year all small businesses will have their payroll tax cut in half. This seems like a good idea, but it seems like the tax cut given to the small businesses will be spent not on profit but instead on raising the wages or paying the workers, so in actuality the small business won’t gain much. Though one aspect that I do support from this Act is where it repairs and renovates public works such as bridges, roads, and schools. To ensure efficiency it will monitor and loan to construction projects based on the need and how the project will benefit the community and economy. I have confidence that this will create jobs much like how the CCC from FDR. By promoting projects for public works will create jobs in construction and in education. I also agree in reforming the system of medicare because as it is now, we are spending too much too quickly, which will result in no medicare for future generations. Another standpoint that I agree with is the elimination of loopholes and tax breaks for the extremely wealthy. Everyone who lives in America should contribute a percentage of what they earn or gain to appreciate and to promote the public services given from this country. Lastly, what I acknowledge most from Obama’s speech is his conclusion. That basically we need to come together, democrats and republicans, to work as a community for the betterment of our society and livelihood. It will take work from everybody and that’s what a successful country is made from, work.
Alfred Kroqi
President Obama's speech was important and could work if passed. The plan uses ideas supported by both Republicans and Democrats. This is key because it is very evident that the two sides do not agree with the views of the other. To help this economy regain its momentum and decrease unemployment, different parties need to put their own selfish interests aside and think about the greater good of the country, despite how socialist that sounds. The American Jobs Act is most importantly going to all be paid for, therefore not increasing America's debt. It would give small businesses a tax cut for hiring new employees or raising the salaries of current employees. A main part of the plan is public works such as repairing schools, buildings, bridges, etc. The United States became a world leader partly thanks to their state of the art infrastructure. Now those things are deteriorating and it is important to repair them. In this act, 35,000 schools would be repaired. Loans would be issued to the schools to pay for repairs on the basis of how badly the loan is needed, how big the job is, and how much money would be circulated due to the job. I like the idea of repairing the countries infrastructure but my only complaint would be what happens when these jobs are done? Those employees would no longer be needed and unfortunately may be unemployed again. This is a good idea but I feel as if it is only a temporary solution. Another aspect of the American Jobs Act is tax cut for hiring veterans. I feel very strongly about this as do millions of others. It is unfair that a troop who has been deployed for longer then it is required to hold is job, comes home from war and has to worry about supporting his family. These people risk their lives to protect our freedoms and liberty, it is only right that they have jobs when they come home. Unemployment insurance would also be extended for another year due to the act. I am impartial about this but do see how it could be helpful. As President Obama said countless times, this bill should be passed. It will help our economy regardless of for how long. Americans need to go to work again and that is what the American Jobs Act will help them do.
Good job on the responses. I am enjoying reading them. Nicole, as of this morning, President Obama has told audiences to "pass this bill" 92 times!
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