I watched the opening via CNN.com and listened to a portion of the Q&A. Obama was naturally focused on the economic situation, while emphasizing that “there can only be one president at a time.” Translation: I could talk for hours but can’t do a damn thing until Jan. 20.
His focus then, per his opening statement, would be on:
(1) Extending unemployment insurance, as necessary
(2) Working with Congress on a fiscal stimulus package, if one isn’t passed during the lame duck session
(3) Retooling assistance to the ailing auto industry, which he called the “backbone” of the American manufacturing sector
(4) Closely reviewing and revising, as necessary, the Bush administration’s handling of its authority, recently granted in the bailout legislation — primarily to make sure the execution of said authority was not unduly favoring Wall Street over Main Street.
Obama also re-iterated his commitment to act quickly on his cherished trinity of energy, education, and health care — though he seemed to suggest (not surprisingly) that the economy-salvaging steps listed above must be top priorities.