WASHINGTON (AP) — A top aide to President Barack Obama says it's time for Congress to take action to create jobs.

White House chief of staff Bill Daley says that in the president's speech to lawmakers Thursday evening, he will propose innovative ideas for growing the economy. He says the American people are demanding that something be done to address persistent unemployment.

Daley says that with Congress' summer break over, lawmakers must "do something and not say no to everything."

Daley said the president's American Job Act will be formally introduced next week. He didn't reveal its details, but said its initiatives would be paid for — and he hinted it would include higher revenue from wealthier people.

Daley spoke on CBS' "Daily Show," NBC's "Today" and ABC's "Good Morning America."