Tonight the President laid out a strategy to rebuild our economy and put people back to work. In New York - like the rest of the country - we are still struggling, despite closing a $10 billion budget gap this year. That is why I am encouraged by the President's recognition of the problems facing the states, which must deliver services and meet the basic needs of their people.

The President's plan is based on fairness and balance, asking the wealthiest Americans to pay a little more - something I have long advocated - so that we can create jobs and jumpstart economic growth. There is a time for politics and there is a time for governing. I hope Congress will come together to put our country first and get Americans back to work.