Priority one for new Pres and Congress?
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FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
For President Barack Obama and the new Congress, January brings the message, "OK, you made the team, now it's time to find out if you can really play." The list of problems confronting our country is long, the list of solutions not so.
Obama will enjoy Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress, so it should be possible to get things done more quickly. But where to start? There are two wars going on and a global economic crisis that could get worse. The terrorists are still around. Our health care system is in disarray. Our reputation overseas is on life support.
Oh, and don't forget taxes, a lack of any coherent energy policy and illegal immigration. No question about it, it's not quite the same country George Bush inherited from Bill Clinton.
Did I mention $10 trillion of debt and budget deficits projected north of $400 billion for next year?
Here’s my question to you: What is priority one for the new president and congress?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Michael from Greenfield, Wisconsin writes:
The laundry list of issues are all inter-connected. The question is: How well will President Obama and his team construct an overall policy to address all of the issues simultaneously? This will take a little time, but if I must offer one priority, then it is Iraq and the $10 billion a month that we waste there, not to mention the wear on tear on our troops of which one is my son.
Ellen from Casa Grande, Arizona writes:
Our "energy solutions” should be put into place as soon as is possible, including all tax incentives and special federal loans that will put us on the road to energy independence quickly and without partisan politics. This will also help to mitigate our job loss problems.
Larissa from Galesburg, Illinois writes:
Place strict regulation on the Federal Reserve and financial institutions. Check the power of those who speculate in the market.
Sandra writes:
It's the economy, stupid.
Brian from Trinidad writes:
Priority one is to start delivering on those election promises. There are no excuses anymore, with clear majorities in both the House and Senate and the president's overwhelming mandate from the people.
Susan from Tuscaloosa, Alabama writes:
End the war in Iraq and bring our sons, our daughters, and our money home!
M.W. from Arizona writes:
Number 1: He must place a freeze on the Home Mortgage foreclosures while he puts his fiscal mandate together. He signed the Bill to pass the $700-billion-dollar bailout for Wall Street, and he must now extend that breathing room to the actual people who are footing the Bill.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It has to be the economy and figuring out what to do to get the majority of Americans, upper and lower middle class, back in a comfort zone. Getting this class back on track will allow for the most healing to the economy.
Priority one is getting some economic inititiatives passed and getting the economy rolling again. We can't do anything else until the economy is fixed.
I think we have to shore up the financial system so we can get past this mess and then please oh please can we work on the health care system? I am having trouble paying for my health expenses and the health expenses of the 45 million people who don't have health insurance.
Priority one for Obama and the new congress is getting the economy to moving again, and creating new jobs. I think Pres. Obama will have to reign in Speaker Pelosi a little cause she can go over the top sometimes with spending. I think it will be fun to watch them butt heads.
Number one priority for congress is to impeach him and throw the fool out of office as quiclky as possible. Then Biden can start to get the country back to respectability.
The economy. We need to get it back on track. It may take a while, but I think we can handle it.
priority#1 has to be fixing the economy that george w. bush and the republicans have ruined and restoring faith in goverment.then it would be restoring our standing with other countries and doing away with the "bully"tacticts of this administration,and then getting out of iraq and bringing our troops home
Selection of a quality cabinet that will have a good mix of Dem/Rep to allow a reduction of partenship and make decisions that are best for the country.
Paul, Woodlawn, TN
Arrest Bush, Cheney, the neo-cons, and every corrupt Wall Street executive, End the war in Iraq. Regulate Wall Street. Close Guantanamo. Take back the airwaves from the F.C.C. Bridge the disparity of our current wealth distribution.Switch us to renewable energy. Cap and trade the fossil fuel industry. Reform healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry. Save millions of home owners from foreclosure. Confront climate change. Bring peace to the middle east. Walk on Water and then turn it to wine.
charges against bush and cheney
The first thing I would do is go after the "Corporate Welfare" in this country. It is time for them to pay their fair share!
Establish strict oversight and accountability for the 700 billion dollar blank check we gave George Bush on his way out the door so it isn’t used for golden parachutes for retiring wall street executives. After all, we don’t want the same kind of accounting practices that Halliburton used in Iraq.
It's the economy, stupid!
Please accept our apologies for returning the Bush clone, Gordon Smith, back to Washington. We tried.
Jack, I think there are several priorities connected to each other, there is no single priority. I think, put in action an effective plan to stabilize economy, simultaneously change the health care policies and get our troops from Iraq back.
IRAQ!
To prosecute all those responsible for the current mess. And take back all the money from these same crooks who think they are walking off into the sunset with it.
Yvonne, BC, Canada
Now that Obama is now president and one of his priorities is breaking down the political party barriers. Let him start by breaking down the party barriers by mixing the parties seating arrangements during his "State of the Union" speeches and eliminate the childish actions that are demonstrated between our so-called educated politicians when we see them stand up or stay seating when they agree with the president or not. This election was not about a political party it was for the American people.
Priority one should be some immediate relief to the middle class through another economic stimulus package. We've suffered long enough!
To overturn the Executive Orders that have trashed our Constitution.. That's the simple one and a no-brainer. To restore a DOL that looks out for the rights of the people and not big business. Those two are quick fixes, The rest is going to take time and considerable oversight.
First he'll have to issue a presidential order to stop shredding and leave the files as they are, then I think a war crimes tribunal would be in order.
Jack, the first priority should be to look to our economy. The new administration should take actions they feel necessary to stabilize as best as possible what we face. At the same time, the President should appoint an Attorney General who will bring all those responsible for our economic woes, whether on Wall Street, or in Washington (Democrat, Republican, Independent or other, regardless of sex and/or race).
The first thing would be to thouroughly clean house. I don't mean dust bunnies, but anything to do with "dubbya" and his 8 years of failure. We need to get the economy out of this downward spiral and get the American people back to work.
Jack, I'm going to follow the leadership of the new President-elect and say that the first order of business should be to stabilize the economy. If people are worrying about physica survival and financial safety, then nothing else will possibly matter to them. These are the foundation of Maslow's hierarchy of need. (I learn that in Psychology class, Jack.)
The economy and getting us out of the war at the same time.
I think that Obama and the Democratic controlled Senate and House should keep the promises they made. I am betting that Obama will be carefully watched and there are just too many things that he plans to do that he won't be able to do, then he and his Democratic co-horts will have some explaining to do. He has already said it will take a year or two to gets things turned around. Voters are much smarter than politicians give them credit for, they will all be held accountable.
Fences must be mended and bonds formed with Republicans who seem to view Democrats as their mortal enemies. We have enough of those elsewhere. Everyone in government, and the citizens, must try to come together and work for our collective well-being.
Stop the runaway spending train the republicans have been driving with the "pedal to the metal" for years.
3 words.... Tax and Spend!
Jack,
Just ending this stupid,expensive war in Iraq would help our economy a great deal. Everyone knows we shouldn't be in this war to begin with.
Carl
As due most people, I think the economy is #1. I also believe that besides the bailout, possibly another incentive check is on the way. However, the road to finacial recovery must use the implementaion of a substancial energy independance package. Build the new clean air technoligies, put people to work in this country, save this planet from ourselves. This will energize this economy, and this great nation,
Priority 1: Put partisan politics aside. Republicans aren't facists and Democrats aren't socialists. Hyperbole does not lend itself to rational decision making.
Increase our taxes, and spend even more than they get from those taxes.
Infrastructure and adding new jobs. There are plenty of people to work-jobs need to be available that cannot be outsourced. Green jobs! People want a hand up, not a hand out. Put the auto makers back to work re-tooling more efficient cars. These things will stimulate the economy and restore pride in people who have felt like no one cared whether they existed or not.
Knoxville, TN
The Republicans keep saying Democrats like to Tax and Spend. Like Dave in MO. What do you think Bush has been doing for the last 8 years. Obama is a Democrat, he will look out for the American People as a whole, not just the top 1%. The economy should be the first priority.
If I knew how to get us out of this mess and undo the Bush disaster, I’d run for president myself.
Help us all, quick– we're going broke! And please, get us out of Iraq!
Impeach and try for war crimes all of those who got us into this mess. it will not divide the country, but prove for future Presidents they re not above the law.
turn around the economy.
I think that the economy will be the first thing to be hit. It has brought so many down. I know it will take a while to undo what has been done before this next leadership takes off. So, we need to give him some room and let him try to make something out of nothing.And, I honestly believe that with our faith and the help of God, this country will become the great nation that it once was.
The economy and Iraq.
We need baby steps.
The Congress has been locked in stalemate over various "comprehensive" bills. We need to focus on the simple common ground changes that both parties and the majority of the public agree are important. Pass a few limited bills that don't solve all the worlds problems, but make things a little better in ways that don't alienate either party.
Lets see a little progress and cooperation in Washington and then we can start to worry about the bigger and more polarizing issues.
Decide on members of his transition team and future Cabinet.
I think that he needs to end this war. It has been the cause of our economic crisis and our dwindling favorability abroad. Whatever Obama chooses to do I'm sure will be the right thing for all of America
A smart, disciplined approach to our economy.
Jack,
President Obama needs to surround himself with the best people for his cabinet members; whether they are Democrats or Republicans.
He wants to make sure that the first issue he tackles is: ECONOMY!
Bi-partisan effort is definitely required to get this economy moving again in the right direction.
Bebe,
West Hartford, Connecticut
Pass a stimulus package as we need another check and then it's all about jobs, baby, jobs.
ECONOMY, get that going and the other items on the list get a little bit easier. But the two wars cannot sit on the shelf and wait, ti will take some multi-tasking.
They should launch a federal investigation into whether or not John King ever sleeps.
Jack.
I think it should be the reason why I voted for him.....his HEALTH CARE plan...
Before any issue should be addressed the new president and the 111th congress need to establish the ground rules.... Reminding each other that their #1 priority is to do what is best for our country and the people in it.
If party politics continue to get nothing done, I hate to see how many seats are filled with new butts in the next election.
If your job is on the line, maybe you can do a better job.
Naming a cabinet that reflects the demographics of America.
Adress the economy, and start devising a way to bring our troops home. We need the war debt to end! I also hope he keeps his promise to go through the ffederal budget line by line. Lord knows how much extra money he could find by doing that! Then Obama and the new congress need to learn what the rest of the country needs to learn... we need to live within our means. We need to spend money on what is needed and cut out the waste...
the economy,healthcare and iraq must be taken care of seriously because people are suffering right now and all americans need some type of relief..we elect the president,senators and congressmens to do a good job for the united states of america..i want the white house and congress to stick to their guns so things will get done this time..
Jack –
1. The economy and FAST!
2. To bring the troops home.
3. Health care.
Daniel Ambrose
First: He needs to take a BIG breath and reflect the past 22 mos. Then sellect the best of the best for his cabinet. 2nd: call a meeting of those in the financial field and start working on fixing the economy. 3rd: Send Sec. of State Powell to some "friendly" countries to mend fences. 4th: Work with the House & Senate to arrange a non-childish seating arrangement (bringing them all together as Americans).
Then let the American people know he's trying to bring everyone together and then HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR.....
It's the economy, stupid.
President Obama's first job will be to end partisan squalls and get congress to function. Next: to attack the economy issue implementing
needed regulations on Wall Street. Perhaps after the econmy is in the right direction, we will be once again in a position of strength to address the other pressing national and international issues facing us.
pass bills that will change our economy, healthcare, environment, and equal pay ala liddy leadbetter !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Come up with a program that puts Americans bactk to work!
Priority One is the economy. It was the number one issue among voters who elected him, including myself.
Putting a partisan team together to finally get back to running our country for the people, by the people...
Getting the people of this Country back to work in good paying jobs. We have to have a manufacturing base in this country. It is time to tell Big Business, if you want to sell it here , then by golly your going to make it here and the money is going to stay in this country and not go to China and Japan and all these other countries while our beloved nation goes down the toilet. It is time to be AMERICAN and do what is best for the United States of America.
Priority one: getting the biggest dumpster possible to clean the mess Bush & Cheney left behind.
get tough on companies that outsource jobs. that will be a start in fixing our ecomony. and the big one, STOP THE TAX BREAKS TO COMPANIES THAT ARE MAKING BILLIONS AND BILLIONS OF DOLLARS and then take bail out funds because of their mismanagement.
Priority No. 1, getting the President-elect his security clearances. (This may prove difficult, since he would never be considered by the FBI or the military because of his radical associations)
Priority No. 2, naming Bill Ayers as Chief of Homeland Security
Priority No. 3, naming Khalidi Ambassador to Israel
Priority No. 4, naming Rev. Wright White House chaplain
Priority No. 5, naming new First Family dog "Whitey"
Priority No. 6, naming his illegal immigrant aunt Supervisor of Public Housing in Boston
for the President, Priority should be foreign relations and administration of laws here in the US. check any budget the legislature passes and maybe sign off if he agrees.
for the Senate and Congress.. make a budget that lies within the restraints of what the US can generate,,, balance the budget. if they are going to make new programs (and they probably will) make sure they are cost effective.
Priority one is to start delivering on those election promises.There are no excuses anymore,with clear majorities in both the house and senate and the president's overwhelming mandate from the people.The interesting thing about those election promises,is that the private promises to big-money individuals will come to light in the appointments.I can't wait to see which ambassadorship Oprah gets.
They must change the mindset of the American people to realize they have a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a PART of something special.
If Barrack Obama is truly prepared to deliver his part, and I believe he is, then the spectating is over for the American people.
If you are not part of the solution ...
Good luck to all of you, it won't be easy. (being a Super Power never is)
President Obama’s first job will be to end partisan squalls and get congress to function. Next: to attack the economy issue implementing
needed regulations on Wall Street. Perhaps after the econmy is in the right direction, we will be once again in a position of strength to address the other pressing national and international issues facing us.
Can we do three things at once, if it is important enough? It may take several bills, but I would love to see a comprehensive proposal that should be number one: a bill to create a NASA sized funding of seed-starts into various energy solutions that will not only create immediate jobs, but will have near-immediate effects of confidence in, and therefore a return to, the capital and financial markets, promote balance of trade solutions by virtue of a sustainable export industry, and enhance national security because of the inherent effects of energy independence (no financial blackmail from our supposed friends and taking away the chackbook from our enemies).
Jack –
the economy
Bring home the troops, with victory & honor
The economy has to be the most important issue, but in order
to resolve this problem, the division within the parties has to
be eliminated.
Nothing will be accomplished if they continue the diasterous
policies of politics as usual. The parties must unite for the
survival of our country,
Our new president will work to make this happen but it
will take the cooperation of all to succeed.
Hopefully the future of our country will take on the importance
it deserves.
Live within their (our) means....all future budgets should limit expenses so they are equal to or less than income realized (not including Social Security funds). Period.
Barack Obama said it last night. Priority one is unite America. No more red states no more blue states, just The United States. Until that healing is reached its going to hard to attack anything else. Last night was a miracle, a giant step. Now its up to the McCain supporters to join the parade. McCain said he'd do it, and thats good leadership. McCain's concession speech was every bit as powerful as Obama.s victory address.
The Economy and the war in Iraq.
By getting us out of Iraq, that will help the economy. Part of this plan has got to be impeachment of Bush and Cheney for getting us involved there in the 1st place. They are not the ones who caused 9-11 and they never had any WMD.
Jack, I think the first thing for the new president is have the white house checked for electronic bugs and make just the phones are not tapped. Then as i will be 65 next year I want them to get on the tax reform that seniors making under 50,000. will not have to pay income taxes. Being serious they need to get Americans back to work, that would help the economy by increasing tax payers and peoples ability to buy. I agree we can not expect him to turn things around fast as it took Bush eight years to dig the hole. Proud to be American
Connie from "BLUE" Indiana
Bringing the country together in a post-partisan way. The Bush administration has left a bigger clean-up job than following a parade of 10,000 elephants. It will take cooperation, superior statesmanship and time to get things back on track.
The low hanging fruit of making solid appointments is key. The economy is the obvious, big picture priority, but it by nature takes time. The Bush administration chewed up any decent Republican personnel who could have potentially helped John McCain had he won. There was little likelihood of positive "change" in Washington had Barack Obama not won.
Impeach Bush and Cheney, and it shouldn't take more than half a day.
Bringing jobs to the American people.
Effectively using whatever is left of the $700+ billion rescue package. The list of things to fix after Bush leaves will be huge but the priority will be to stabilise the economy. Making sure the money already allocated isn't squandered is especially important as it has already been added to the national debt.
1) To select a good Cabinet and staff, and to select a better House Speaker and Minority Whip.
2) Iraq and Afghanistan.
3) To start unraveling the economic crisis and prevent people from losing their homes until they can either work out alternative financing that they can afford or find alternative housing.
That ought to be enough for the first 60 days, or so (sarcasm, just in case you couldn't tell...)
The first thing he will need to do is have the White House fumigated. It will take awhile to get the stench out.
Oversight of the bailout dollars.
President Obama and the new Congress must work together in a bipartisan manner and put aside any childish bickering and back biting for the good of all Americans. The economy is in the toilet, the war continues, Bin Laden is still at large, healthcare is an unattainable dream for many, and America is too dependent on foreign interests for our energy and goods. It is far overdue that our politicians put their Democrat and Republican robes in a locked closet, roll up their shirt sleeves, and get to work. It's time for the adults to run this country.
Seek with the help of Congress and the corporate world to get the economy going again and begin to put our financial house in order again. Everything else is going to have to wait. And everyone is going to need to help out in this for it is we the people, the wand that our president must wield.
Geri – Mead, OK
Helping Americans believe once again that what we hear from Washington is not just another bunch of lies.
Hey, Keep the Change!
You. Lost. Deal with it. I've had to deal with 8 years of a president that I didn't elect, and that you can make the arguement that the US didn't elect. You can learn to what it feels like being on the other end.
The McCain concession speech last should be your guide. THAT was the McCain I voted for in 2000, not the one we've seen for the last year. He called for ALL Americans to work together. We've got serious problems to deal with that are going to require everyone's working together to solve. So, unless you are Joe Six-Pack who can't look beyond the end of your nose, you need to stop with the divisive crap and take a lesson from McCain...
Priority one is to consult with experts, craft a plan, lay out a strategy and share that with the American people and the world. Now that we have heard about change, and bought the change, we need to see the change. We are ready to invest in it, but we need to see what we are investing in.
Fix the economic nightmare that we're in.
Get us out of Iraq.
Priority #1: Pass Obama's tax plan. The middle-class is suffering the most. Herbert Hoover and George Bush had practically identical economic ideologies that collapsed the stockmarket and caused millions of Americans to lose their jobs. If the majority of the people can only afford to buy necessities, they cannot spend more. The cause and effect result is more factories close and more people are out of a job. We could still go into a depression.
"Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it."
Likely they will immediately start on enviromental issues which will create millions of decent paying jobs throughout America.
When people work and make a decent wage they spend it all just to survive and if lucky maybe the odd vacation. In any event people making money and spending it will be a good start to get the economy going in the right direction.
The funny part of the latter is that the rich will still get richer as they will be the ones at the top syphoning off the cream while the workers get the milk.
to "Keep the Change"– please go back under that rock you climbed out from under. Your day is done.
Jack, The number one priorty should be to get the nation to turn the page on the Bush years gracefully and move forward as one, unified people.
He should start with the economy. He needs to hold true to "going through each line of the budget" and getting rid of the crap that doesn't need to be there. However, I think he needs to multi-task and get some smaller things done while concentrating on the huge burden Bush has left him with in regards to the economy. I'll think he'll make some good headway, but he won't get as much accomplished as he'd like to I'm sure. But I'm okay with that...as long as we are on the way toward change, I'm good.
#1 should be selecting quality cabinet members. I'd like to see definite bi- or multipartisanship in it, but even more important, I think, is getting a good balance of liberals and conservatives. After all, not all democrats are liberal, and not all republicans are conservative.
The first thing Obama needs to do as president is to pardon John McCain for shooting George Bush in the face.
Never mind, it hasn't happened yet.
Oh well, I can dream, can't I??
The economy and restoring America's reputation around the world.
"its the economy stupid" not you Jack, the questions
Begin criminal charges against the Wall Street crooks, Bush and anyone Bush dosen't pardon. Without that it will be almost impossible to regain world wide trust or respect.
After inauguration, give Cheney and Bush for a week's stay at Guantanamo (waterboarding optional), before closing it down, and then hand them over to the UN for human rights abuses.
I believe it was avoiding to talk about his plans to help the middle class people. He very rarely spoke about the middle class as if we did not exsist.
The entry by "Keep The Change!" is pathetic. Freedom of Speech holds no bounds!
John McCain made several errors of equal magnitude. Probably his biggest was to stick to the Republican standby of attacking his opponent rather than talking the issues. People are tired of the mudslinging. Obama did some mudslinging but was very clear about his plan. Palin was an anchor and another turn off, a real slap in the face to "real americans" in large urban areas. But for me the final nail in the coffin is that he stuck to his guns on Reagan's trickle down theory of economics. Everyone is tired of the rich getting richer while normal moms and dads struggle to fill the tank.
Obama laid out his priorities and I agree with him. But I would like him to clean house. A completely new face in every position of the WH.Imagine having a Gov't where everyone forgets his or her party and works together to build a new prospering country. WITH A TRUE CONGRESS. This country is at ground level now so we have no place to go but up.
There are too many priorities; however, I would like to see us get out of Iraq's life where we never belonged.
Select good advisors around him.
to change the electoral vote to 10.76 electoral votes for each state , if america isnt severly attacked due to a ver weak, inexperienced commander in chief.
The first priority is the need to create jobs. Providing meaningful new jobs in areas like alternative energy and transportation will both stimulate the economy and begin solving long standing problems. FDR pulled this off during the Great Depresssion and so can President Obama and the Democratic Congress. There are plenty of unemployed engineers and production workers who would love the opportunity to be able to make their mortgage payments.
Do the job that they are paid to do! Stop the sniping and get to work to resolve the numerous problems this country has because of sniping and partisianship!
It's the economy stupid. The first thing he needs to do is get the economy going and that means spending money on infrastructure projects. These projects create jobs for American workers and by doing so generate tax revenue both directly in the form of payroll taxes and indirectly through sales tax when wages are spent. The long term cost of these projects is a lot less than the initial price tag suggests and they help the middle class and not just the financial interests.
Get us some jobs around here! I have a four-year degree and I am forced to apply for work as administrative assistant and so forth. Can we extend unemployment like we used to at least for one year? How about overhaul healthcare? Maybe do something about immigration? If people want to be here to have the American dream, help these people out so they won't have to live underground.
First they will have to tackle the economy and the budget for the Nation. I know it will not happen over night. But at least I feel more hopeful that work will be done for the majority of Americans. It feels good to have the focus put back on people.
stop spending all our money on those damn wars–they don't care about us...we need that money here–NOW !
He should start with energy first, then taxes. Perhaps another stimulus package to get started with. Working toward energy independence will help create jobs for the middle class and is a step in the right direction. Bipartisan cooperation will be of the utmost importance and hopefully will instill a better work ethic for congress.
fix the economy. reduce debt.
Redundant question...I think by now we all know the economy is number one.
Get this mess straight. We need Change.
Getting out of Iraq and Afghanistan.
Restore the Constitution, dump the Patriot Act, dump torture, close Gitmo, push a law for an open government in the White House and NO EXECUTIVE PRIVELEGE FOR ANY MEMBER OTHER THAN THE PRESIDENT, let us travel in our own country without being searched like criminals and restore our military to the strength it should be. One more thing, pardon those border patrol officers that were put in jail for doing their job.
Getting this economy under control and enacting regulations that
actually protect all of us from unbridled greed.
Senator Obama's greatest challenge will be convincing the American people that they must step up, sacrifice, work together and find common ground before we can attempt to tackle the multitude of problems facing our nation. Golden, CO
Security and the Economy... Get to Work!
Check the White House for Republican bugs.
Appoint people to his cabinet that are not thugs.
The Economy.
End this war righteously,and get the troops home;we have alot of work to do to improve our home the U.S. OF A. and in order to complete all of that we need everyone home willing and ready to work,on ourselves and eachother....God Bless America,and God Bless all of You
THANKS FOR VOTING, AMERICA!
Priorities, IF I had a say:
Tax break for the middle-class, to put more money in people's pockets so they can afford to pay bills, save and shop! This in itself will, help slumping retail sells, which will have a domino effect on the rest of the economic sectors.
Responsible withdrawal from Iraq. We need the $10 BILLION a month we are spending there, at home!
HEALTHCARE FOR ALL AMERICANS WHO NEED IT.
IF President Obama can accomplish these few priorities, he will have another VICTORY in 2012!
A single issue is not enough.
Some f my highest priorities are:
A. Restore Consitutional govrnment – eliminate executive orders, diretives, etc. that allow wiretapping without a courtorder (emergncy retroacive OK0; eliminate enforcement of laws as desired by the President; eliminate Mexican trucks on US roads.
B. strengthen the economy. pass a 2nd stimulous if there is not one from the lame duck session. Encourage employment within the US. An incentive for creation of new jobs is ok but we need something premantent like a tax crdit to business for a high percentage of US citizens in the wiorkforce – apid by an off-setting general increase, so the employers with a high perent of US worker would pay less and other pay more..
c. Pardon Border Patrol Agents Ramos & Compean – a simple matter of justice..
Get the economy up and running without that being done first nothing else can be done.
Put people to work. Get the ball rolling. Stop the bleeding. Maybe a few other cliche's. If we don't get some cash into the hands of ordinary people, the bailouts, credit markets, and the stock market will become irrelevant.
The economy is at the top of the list, but the economy is interconnected to taxes, the federal budget, Iraq & Afghanistan, energy policy & global warming, etc, so President Obama will need to work with the House & Senate to resolve those issues in a way that will grow the economy & bring down the national debt.
Jack I know the ecocnomy is bad, but he need to start bringing our children home from the WAR, we need security for sure, but families are hurting for their LOVED ones..
I have enough problems handling my owm little difficulties! That's why I didn't run for President. All I can do is pray for those elected, because they're sure going to need our prayers!!
Priority number one is the economy which encompasses adjusting the Federal Budget, updating regualation laws, managing the 700 billion dollar bailout and ending the costly Iraq war.
With the way he has run his campaign, selecting the best people to run it, he will surround himself with the finest and best minds to work on the economy and all the other situations that face us and the world.
Won't be overnight, but progress will be made in the best way to handle it. With a plan that works
He should start with ending these stupid, immoral, illegal wars, close Gitmo and restore the Constitution!!!
Get one under is belt ...close Gitmo.
He should start with the economy first, and then education. There are too many failing school districts that only offer other failing schools as options to families seeking to exercise their right to School Choice, as provided by the NCLB Act. It's time to increase charter schools and other competitive education measures.
Achieving a goal that can be accomplished through bipartisanship, to establish cooperation among all parties (Republicans, Democrats, Independents). Like a sound energy policy that links to job creation. Or a fiscally sound and quick solution to the mortgage crisis, that will help all Americans regardless of party affiliation. I'd like to think we would all love to see the polarization of our political system diffused, to set a standard to go forward with on the other challenging issues we face.
Rescind any major blanket pardons for Cheney and his cronies that Bush will likely deal out in a few weeks.
Our collective security at home and abroad should be #1 with the economy #2 and health care #3. General, he needs to provide us secure lives with less stress and better health. This nation is sick in many ways and Obama has been handed the scapel.
The economy is number one. I don't really think it will be fast or easy, after all Bush and his band of thieves took eight years to completely destroy our economy, most of it they benefited from.
Ending the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan would be a win/win, both morally and financially.
It would be nice if they took the proper steps to hold the current administration legally responsible for the many illegal and immoral things they have done over the past 8 years. However, we know from experience professional courtesy will not allow this to happen regardless of how justified it may be.
Get a stimulas package for the working people to boost our economy
and focus on endining the war in iraq, and start focusing on bin laden
and talk to the enemy to see if we can come to a reasonable solution on how to make the world safe. also put the best qualified people in office.
go line by line and get rid of all the organizations that don't work
to save more money.
Prosicution of George W. Bush and co. We must show the world we practice what we preach.
Learn each other's names. Lots of newbies. Yes!
I think Mr. Obama and Congress will start bringing jobs back to America.
Multitask: Fix the Economy and plan an exit for the troops in Iraq.
The economy and then healthcare and then Iraq.
Hi Jack:
We have so many problems that we can write them down on a little piece of paper. Put them all in a hat and work on the first one that gets pulled.
Bennie
Avon, IN
The economy is very important, and I know it won't be quick and easy. He's also got to pull those troops out of Iraq, then he can move forward with everything else. He's got my support 100%, and I'm sure America will back him all the way.
Relief for middle/poor class Americans!
Jack: The number one priorty is the economy. The second priorty is ending the Iraq War with wisdom. The third priorty is 46 million Americans without medical coverage, and last but not least is solvency for the social security trust fund. President elect Obama has a full plate to handle.
John
Alabama
He will have the herculean task of trying to get our economy up and running again. There's really nothing much that can be done until that problem is fixed. George's ditch is so deep that it will take a lot of time and effort to climb out. He has the will to do it . . . let's hope that we the people will pitch in and help.
Number one priority as always, defending our country-National Security
I think the biggest challenge Obama will face is keeping the younger generation engaged in government. I hope that the country doesn't lose this amazing momentum we've found. Elections are so often anti-climactic, and I hope he comes up with an innovative way to keep open communication with the people who put him in office. It would be a shame to have to start all over again 4 years from now when he's up for re-election.
hey jack i have a priority do not make the same mistakes as the last idiot did and make it so we can afford to live in america again
Get the hell out of Irac, so that we can use those funds to turn our economic situation around and begin to restore our reputation in the world.
what does Barack becoming president means? first of al,l i say thanks to all Americans for electing him into i feel like we're apart of the world again, we can get back the respect and admiration that we deserve. There is no doubt that Obama is a great man, and with this election it has proved that through his struggles he still has his country's best interest at heart. I am proud that he agreed to be my president, that he is willing to change America on my and everyone's behalf that he will dedicate his precious time to try and help me and improve my life. This is a big change for America and i hope Mccain is willing to stop his childish ways and help in bringing back America. Well done Obama!!!!!!!
President-Elect Obama and particularly Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid had beter heed the wishes of the American people.
The Democratic Party was put in power two years ago and they have been a disgusting failure.
It is now time to put up or shut up!!! Additionally, the Republicans in Congress had better learn to compromise and quit grand-standing or blocking needed legislation. Their party is in shambles and this is because of their past excesses and pettiness.
BEWARE - The American people are watching you!!! In two years another third of the Senate is up for reelection. Keep it up and you will be next!!!!
Jobs and stop this damm war in iraq
To fix this mess we are in with our economy. As much as I like all of the things President Elect Obama says he wants to do for this country, I don’t see how he’ll able to do any of it. He will be to busy fixing this administrations mess. As for the next Congress just don’t screw anything up any more than it already is!
Economy, energy independence, jobs, foreign cooperation, all are linked in the greater world, priority one should be to look at all of them inclusively and determine a path incorporating these elements to build a healthier country for all of us.
Get out of Iraq
Slash spending
Slash taxes
Make freinds out of new found enemies
and a partridge and a pear tree
It's the economy stupid..ha ha..
Economy.............................
I believe it was said best before...!! "Its the Economy Stupid..!"
to close guantanamo and begin withdrawal from iraq, of our troops and our monthly 'stipend'. it is and has been the biggest waste of blood and treasure in our history.
Hi Jack,
priority one would be a rescue plan for the middle class in the form of tax breaks for the middle class, and any other rescue plan needed to stop home foreclosure and create infrastructure jobs, and offer real accountability and transparency about the 700 billions rescue plan by not to paying dividends and bonuses...all of this wiuthout creating inflation since then what will be the point of getting more money in your monthly budget if you end up paying more for goods at the end.
Fix the economy, no doubt. Without the economy flowing correctly, the sets up the world for a host of different problems.
Jack....slow and steady wins the race. Obama has campaigned on a platform of control, knowledge and forethought......he will do the same with the astronomical problems he will confront. All will be well on the Washington horizon.
Sometime after Senator Barack Obama was announced as the 44th president of the United States of America a newly construced Black Church was set on fire. This happen in Springfield, Ma. near the Indian Orchard part of Springfield. The damage is guested at two million dollars plus.
Morning of November 5, 2008. The fire is being investigated as of this email.
This was reported of the local ABC affiliate.
Politically, I feel there are a few priorities for our new government. Obama has less than two years to make good on some big promises if the Democrats are to survive the midterm elections. First, the war in Iraq must end. Second, Bin Laden must be found. And most importantly, the middle class must feel the beginning of an economic surge. If these things do not happen I see a 1994 style Republican surge in the legislature.
Jack, its the economy stupid
Hi Jack,
priority one would be a rescue plan for the middle class in the form of tax breaks for the middle class, and any other rescue plan needed to stop home foreclosure and create infrastructure jobs, and offer real accountability and transparency about the 700 billions rescue plan by not paying dividends and bonuses…all of this has to be done without creating inflation (hope some experts knows how!) since then what will be the point of getting more money in your monthly budget if you end up paying more for goods at the end.
Congress under Democratic leadership job #1 to repeal the term limits of a Democratic Presedency. Similar to Congress and the Senate they will allow multiple terms. They missed their chance with Clinton and won't let that happen again.
The economy will loom like a vulture but if Obama runs his presidency with the skill and precision that he did in the campaign, then we have nothing to worry about.
Hi Jack,
revised and typos corrected.
priority one would be a rescue plan for the middle class in the form of tax breaks for the middle class, and any other rescue plan needed to stop home foreclosure and create infrastructure jobs, and offer real accountability and transparency about the 700 billions rescue plan by not paying dividends and bonuses…all of this has to be done without creating inflation (hope some experts knows how!) since then what will be the point of getting more money in your monthly budget if you end up paying more for goods at the end.
I went to work today and past out nickels so it won’t hurt as much next year when President-elect Obama forces me to spead my wealth. On later thought I’d probably should have made it a quarter
It has to be the economy. Bush made up the term "Trickle Down Economics". The term we who understand finance is "The Law of Supply & Demand". No demand, no supply. So it trickles up. Very simple.
Obama understands this.
The economic recovery of course is priority one; and to undo any of the 11th hour executive orders that either have been or will be issued by "W" before he leaves office. I wonder how many of those ridiculous orders will do more economic harm!
Work on the debt while reducing the money we send to Iraq. Then work on the educational and medical insurance systems.
I think the biggest challenge Obama will face is keeping the younger generation engaged in government. I hope that the country doesn’t lose this amazing momentum we’ve found. Elections are so often anti-climactic, and I hope he comes up with an innovative way to keep open communication with the people who put him in office. It would be a shame to have to start all over again 4 years from now when he’s up for re-election.
Stephanie – Portland, OR
Well there are many Priorities but the most important will be Mortgage Crisis in America. HELP PEOPLE SAVE THEIR HOMES
Place strict regulation on the Federal Reserve and financial institutions. Check the power of those who speculate for the market. And not that it will ever happen, but I personally would like to see someone investigate the legality of the IRS because I can't seem to find the law that makes taxing the American income legal.
Jumpstart the Green Industry. Producing alternative energy technology and reworking our infrastructure has a big cost upfront, but it is a strategic investment that tackles the economy, foreign policy, and the environment.
Economic rebound, and jobs. For us folks who were out sourced to other countries over the last 8 years. Us common folk, need jobs to earn money to help pay for the new debt.
Willisa, Goodyear Arizona
I echo Charlie's sentiment!:
"Priority one is getting some economic inititiatives passed and getting the economy rolling again. We can’t do anything else until the economy is fixed."
Jobs, increase taxes on companies which take jobs overseas, get people busy and producing, get everyone involved into solving all the problems we all have. Stop the destructive criticism, roll up our sleeves, pull up our socks and get to work. If in doubt, volunteer to help at your local school (Education) volunteer to help at the recycling center (Climate) get informed in energy saving and pass on your knowledge, again as a volunteer... there is so much work to be done, there is no time for negativism, but positive, energetic action to get us back on track..
There is no priority one.
We did not just hire one of the top leaders of our time to single thread the issues faced by this nation.
Obama has 100 days to get the ball rolling on the economy, realigning our war priorities (set an outward direction in Iraq and an inward one in Afghanistan), a healthcare plan and an energy plan.
They are all tied together, they know it.
It's the stupid economy, stupid.
It means that the people ( reguardless of thier race) who still cling to their old stereotypes and prejudices of racism woke up this morning
facing the stark realization
that they are quickly becoming
OBSOLETE.
It's definitely the economy. Other issues play into our economy, like energy, war, health care, taxes....it's a big tangled knot of problems, and we may have to attack several at once to get the best results. I'm anxious to see who President Elect Obama chooses to surround himself with in his upcoming Administration. Nobody can do this alone, and he'll need the very best.
Take stock on where our country truly stands on all issues. It is so necessary to find out what is what and who is and has done what before setting a course for prioities and action.
First priority should be undoing the environmental deregulation Bush is currently sneaking into law. Why isn't CNN covering this?
The first things is taking care of the economy with jobs for americans, the next is the housing crisis for middle class americans because those are the two thing to create stability to the american people. The next thing is to go after all those that violated the law from President, Vice President, CEO, Wall Street, and recover some money that was stolen by this criminal act by those that did this to us in american.
This was a crime committed with no love, compassion, respect, nor anything that our country represent. There are many steps after but jobs and housing is the foundation of everything then you go from there. They always say take care of your own backyard before you take care of anybody else. Those are ones to live by before you can give you must take care of oneself in order to have anything to show are give to others meaning other countries.
We must rebuilded america in that capacity and have a stable foundation under your feet.
Jack I have a question: How long does the average comment stay inmoderation? I have snet messages that seem never to get out of this stage. I wonder if there is something the matter... It is very dismaying, and I am about to stop gettin involved...
Obama needs to first get a handle on Congress, if he can. Confidence needs to be restored in the market place and having a tax and spend runaway Congress will drive the market and the economy further in the hole. They all need to reassure the country that they are "truely" going to operate from a centrist position and not the way left agenda they have been touting. As I see from posts from many Democrats, they are asking for the investigations and persecutions to begin. Isn't that all they have done for 2 years in Congress already? Get to work!
MAking sure that democrats and republicans in both houses understand that unity and bi-partisan are not dirty words nor attacks on their patriotism but absolutely necessary to bring this country we love out of the morass of the past 8 years..
how about a three part plan.... 1, end the war in iraq, it'll save 10 billion a month or something on that order, 2. energy independance, these investments will create jobs, and end out thirsty for foreign oil foreign policy, and 3. health reform it is too expensive for 80% to provide care for themselves and the 20% of people to have no insurance.
Put in place a logical and fiscally responsible financial management system.
Bill Clinton, can you remind Mr. Cafferty? "The economy, stupid". There Jack, now you know.
It's the economy,stupid.
Most people agree, Jack, that Issue #1 is getting our economy back on track. However, this can be tied in with developing energy independence and an effective cost-efficient healthcare system that is inclusive and uses current and developing technology. As Obama has so eloquently pointed out, a President will have to be able to do more than one thing at a time, so he also needs to immediately start drawing down the troops in Iraq, which will also help our economy.
I think the priority one for Obama will be to do what he has been able to do best, surround himself with the people to "get 'er done".
It worked for his campaign, which was so effective, that I am sure he will be able to do the same for the country.
He is a thoughtful, intelligent man and that is something we have desperately needed for the last eight years!
Economy,middle class,jobsand working well together to better the entire country and the world. We must keep hope alive and kicking and become one nation under a groove....one nation we're on the move, nothing can stop us now! Whatcha gonna do? Whatever it takes!!!!!!!!!
McCain didn't make a mistake, Obama did. McCain is old and his political career is almost over. He had nothing to lose. Obama is new and he walked into a pit of quicksand. He can't possibly deliver what he promised. Ouch!!!
I think the first think he as to do is surround himself with people that will actually look out for the good of Americans – be they democrat or republican. Then comes the economy. I don't know how he's going to tackle everything, but we have to give him time – he has inherited a mess! It took 8 years to create it & will take many years to fix it.
Legalize and taxing marijuana will fix the economy and fund universal health care.
Jack,
I would suggest that they first hire the 'witch-casting' Pastor Murthee to chase the Bush demons out of the White House. That is a change we have all been waiting for.... you betcha!
Jack,
Give tax breaks to those manufacturing and buying alternative fueled vehicles. No more Oil wars, Oil deficits, or Oil spills!
The Economy!!!! Fix the economy and a lot of other things will fall into place.
Tony Brooklyn NY
Without doubt it has to be the economy, it is a huge mountain to climb with no easy solutions. But it has to be done and some of the promise's President elect Obama has made may just have to wait a while, I am sure he will make them happen it will just take longer than he or any of us would like.
Martyn, Fort Lauderdale.
Re-introducing America to the world.
Jack, to follow up on your sports metaphor, Obama needs to start with a serious pep talk (and who could do that better than Barack?) to bring the entire country together as a team. That's the only way our disparate talented players are ever going to rise to the level of a nation of winners.
Create jobs/ economy and Iraq War
I would like to see immediate health care reform. Also, a big reason i chose Obama was his plan to instate a wider range of service to earn time in college. A personally know many who are serving in the military now simply because they want to go to college. I would love to see a world that embraces serving in the peace corps just as valuable as serving in the marine corps.
Priority is to do something... anything... as long as it's positive: better energy policy, financial policy, tax plan, helath care plan, etc. No progress has been made in the last 8 years in anything that makes us or the place we live better.
Work for the American People, not like the republican congress that forced everything down our throats that Bush wanted. Everything will fall into place if they work for the people.
Well Obama ran on change and then he goes out and brings in the most partisan of Washington insiders Rahm Emanuel.
He has already lost his dream!!!
He needs to lead us out of this recession even if it means going back on his promises. The "change" he brings us may not be the change we expected, but we can trust the nation in Obama's capable hands.
It has to be the economy, since that's what most of the people are worried about now. They have to figure out how to stimulate the economy without putting too much pressure on the taxpayers.
The economy. Barack Obama needs to keep his promise to America. If he promises change, he needs to bring it to our economy. Many Presidents have not kept promises to America, so let's hope he's not another hypocrite.
Number 1: He must place a freeze on the Home Mortgage foreclosures while he puts his fiscal mandate together. He signed the Bill to pass the $700-billion-dollar bailout for Wall Street, and he must now extend that breathing room to the actual people who are footing the Bill.
These are the priorities in order:
1. End the war in Iraq and bring the troops home
2. Fix the economic mess
3. Fix the healthcare mess
4. Protect social security for my kid's generation
Assembling the best team to get our economy back to normal, withdraw from Iraq, and focus on hunting down Osama Bin Laden.
Priority 1: Get rid of Bush...all of it, including his smell, vandalisms in the White House Restrooms, and his corrupt croonies. Why wait until January 09 when change can occur now!
Clear out all of the FBI bugs left in the Oval Office.
JACK,
Priority is to get this country back on track the economy comes first then work on bringing troops home from iraq and working with the rest of the world to bring peace and prosperity. The obama/biden administration with congress will heal this nation and the world.
Albany ny
Just like Obama said, make sure everything is done right and in place correctly to rejuvenate the economy. Nothing much can happen until that succeeds. I have an idea there will be s good number of PO'd corporate banking/wall street execs when their Golden parachutes turn out to be based on the minimum wage.
Prioritize issues
Create a timeline to address
Reach acress the aisle for help
Look for points of discussion and alignment
Make CHANGE happen!
Philip
Portland, OR
HOPE that things get better because i a am scared.
The number 1 priority is our economy because they we are now it not working and it hard for people like me.
It's pretty simple–right this ship.
To understand that you work for the American people and we have a 50/50 divide.
Rahm Emmanuel is an indication of divisiveness already and an attempt to push their will on others. Thank goodness Senate can stop the kooky ideas as Dem are not filibuster proof.
Jack Carlson
Seattle WA
A sign of greatness in a newly elected president is not only himself but the competent people around himself that he has chosen and delegated responsibilities to. No one person can do it all. He can attack and chip away at many at one time. The economy though stands out in my mind as the most critical right now.
First of all, the Obama administration needs to keep the promise of hope and unity within reach. He needs the support from Congress to be able to implement Change. Personal agendas can have no priority here. With this support, he can best implement his policies to repair our country.
Getting this country back on the right track economically. We need to have 'made in america' popular again. Free Trade has been a disaaster when foreign countries impose sanctions against us, but we are providing free trade for them. IF for some reason there were to be a war with China, we would no longer even be able to purchase a light buld.