The White House released new details of an $825 billion economic recovery package on Saturday as President Obama sought to broaden the plan\u2019s appeal a day after stepping squarely into the fractious Congressional debate over the proposal.<\/p>\n
In his weekly video address, Mr. Obama argued that the package of spending programs and tax breaks was critical not only to turn around the economy but to rebuild the nation for a new era.<\/p>\n
In the address, posted for the first time on the White House Web site, Mr. Obama made the case that the package would help students go to college, protect workers from losing health care, lower energy bills and modernize schools, roads and utilities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is not just a short-term program to boost employment,\u201d\u009d Mr. Obama said. \u201cIt\u2019s one that will invest in our most important priorities like energy and education, health care and a new infrastructure that are necessary to keep us strong and competitive in the 21st century.\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n