U.S. President Barack Obama returns to Capitol Hill Tuesday night for his first State of the Union address of his second term. His message is expected focus on the economy, says Thomas Mann of the Brookings Institution.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) THOMAS MANN SENIOR FELLOW AT THE BROOKINGS INSTITUTION, SAYING:
"He is basically trying to restore in the public mind, the importance of government in helping the country get its economy growing, and new jobs created - shifting away from 'government is the problem' to 'government is an essential player in brightening future prospects for the country and its citizens.'"
But Obama's plans to boost the economy will likely face Republican resistance.
SOUNDBITE) (English) THOMAS MANN SENIOR FELLOW AT THE BROOKINGS INSTITUTION, SAYING:
"I think the President is going to be tough and clear and invite their cooperation, but frankly, I do not expect they will do anything out of anything other than political fear."
Obama will travel to three states over three days after his address, going on the road to drum up support for his agenda.
