Obama Recovery Gains Steam

Barack Obama’s defining moment may come as soon as his first weeks in office, as he moves to pass an unprecedented $825 billion stimulus plan. According to a CNN poll, he’ll have one crucial ally by his side in this fight—the American public. Some 58 percent of Americans polled support increased government spending to try to stave off a Depression, and Obama’s decision to include tax cuts in the plan—to the ire of some on the left—boosts the legislation’s appeal even further. A whopping 71 percent back the plan when tax cuts are in the mix. “Barack Obama’s plan to reach out to Republican members of Congress with a tax-cut component to his stimulus package seems to be working with the GOP rank and file,” CNN polling director Keating Holland said.