AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — President Barack Obama says the American economy is, in his words, "poised for progress."
Obama says those listening to the doom and gloom in Washington or watching cable news might think nothing is going right. But he says Americans have cleared away the debris from the worst fiscal crisis in their lifetime.
He says housing markets are improving, corporate profits are skyrocketing and the energy and auto industries are thriving. He says now the nation must budget smarter.
He's asking Americans to urge Congress to pass his proposals on jobs, education and raising the minimum wage.
Obama spoke at a technical high school near Austin, Texas. He's kicking off a series of quick trips to highlight his proposals on jobs and the economy.