Dow goes up, Republicans Still Disapprove of Stimulus Bill

Tonight on, "The Rachel Maddow Show," Rachel discussed the current state of the economy and Obama's budget plan with politician Sherrod Brown. As a direct, yet indirect result of the revelation of Geithner's new bank plan, the Dow surged about 500 points. Despite the recent improvements in our frazzled economy, there are, of course, many who do not approve with the current administration's economic plan.

Anyone want to take a wild guess of who these fellows are? Across the nation, Republican politicians are still denouncing the budget plan. Some Governors are even going as far as refusing to accept money from the national stimulus bill.

Although I don't fully agree with Obama's economic positions and current plan, and can certainly resonate with Republicans on some of these iffy issues, I don't think they have the right to be this judgemental...yet. Yes, the stimulus plan may fail. And yes, raising taxes on America's highest wage earners during a recession is kind of hypocritical. But so far, Obama and his cabinet are working tirelessly to help all Americans. This is not a proper time to be picky, especially when Bush, a Republican president, plummaged our country into debt and the current recession.

If in six months nothing has improved, by all means, skeptical Republicans, please come out on the record and say, "I told you so." But for now, just sit back, relax, and watch Bill O'Reilly.

Recession Pessimism

According to MSNBC, 51% of Americans are pessimistic about the current state of the economy and the path we are on for 2009, whereas 49% are optimistic that things will get better. Even after President Obama's uplifting speech about his stimulus and budget plan, most Americans still see 2009 as a year of economic stress. Obama announced his $4 trillion, yes trillion, budget plan, and tried to assure the American public that even though it will take time, tax cuts and universal healthcare efforts will exonerate most Americans of their final troubles.

Personally, I believe that the economy will get worse before it gets better, but in due time, the stock market will be on the rise, foreclosures will slow down, and credit will be reimbursed. It is only natural that an economic recession will turn into financial progression.

What do you guys think? What do you think lies ahead economically for 2009?

"It's not about helping banks...but helping people."

Tonight, President Barack Obama addressed Congress and the nation about his plan to transform and stimulate the American economy. Throughout his speech, he made many great points about the proper moves to get the country out of a recession. Some of the high points of his speech include comments about green energy creation in order to lessen pollution and create jobs, and statements about how banks should still allow families to receive loans to buy homes and cars. Since unemployment is high, millions of homes are in danger of foreclosure, and many Americans are in danger of losing health insurance, Obama did a great job assuring America that there are indeed solutions to this economic mess. Will his new Act he is passing do the trick? Sure, it will take time to get the nation out of the recession because of the extent of the housing and credit crisis, but Obama's oratory gave myself (and I'm sure most Americans) hope that change will come. Reform is key, and I am hopeful that it will come.