Hi, everybody.
Four years after the worst economic crisis of our
lifetimes, our economy is growing again and creating jobs. But we have
much more to do. Our task now is to build on that progress. Because
this nation only succeeds when we’ve got a growing, thriving middle
class.
That’s what drives me. That’s what I campaigned on for the
past year. That’s what will guide me in our work over the next four
years. And I’m willing to work with anyone of any party to move this
country forward.
Because soon, we face a very clear deadline that requires
us to make some big decisions on jobs and taxes; on investments and
deficits. Both parties voted to set this deadline. And I believe both
parties can work together to make these decisions in a balanced and
responsible way.
When it comes to taxes, for example, there are two pathways available.
One says, if Congress fails to act by the end of the year,
then everybody’s taxes automatically go up – including the 98% of
Americans who make less than $250,000 a year. Our economy can’t afford
that right now. You can’t afford that right now. And nobody wants that
to happen.
The other path is for Congress to pass a law right away to
prevent a tax hike on the first $250,000 of anyone’s income. That means
all Americans – including the wealthiest Americans – get a tax cut.
And 98 percent of Americans, and 97 percent of all small business
owners, won’t see their income taxes go up a single dime.
The Senate has already passed a bill like this. Democrats
in the House are ready to pass one, too. All we need is for Republicans
in the House to come on board.
We shouldn’t hold the middle class hostage while Congress
debates tax cuts for the wealthy.
Let’s begin our work by actually doing
what we all agree on. Let’s keep taxes low for the middle class. And
let’s get it done soon – so we can give families and businesses some
good news going into the holiday season.
I know these challenges won’t be easy to solve. But we can do it if we work together.
That’s why on Friday I sat down with Congressional leaders
to discuss how we can reduce our deficit in a way that strengthens our
economy and protects our middle class. It was a constructive meeting.
And everyone agreed that while we may have our differences, we need to
come together, find solutions and take action as soon as possible.
Because if anything, that’s the message I heard loud and clear in the election.
Work as hard as you can to make our lives better. And do it together.
Don’t worry about the politics. Just get the job done.
Everywhere I went in that campaign – from farms in Iowa to
the Vegas strip; from Colorado’s Rockies to the Florida coast – I was
inspired by the grit and resilience of the American people, by your hard
work and sense of decency. And it makes me want to work even harder
for you. I saw it again this week in New York, where our fellow citizens
are going through a really tough time, but are helping each other
through it. And we’re going to be there to help them rebuild.
Every single day, the good people of this country work as
hard as you can to meet your responsibilities. Those of us you sent to
Washington are going to do the same.
Thanks and have a great weekend.
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