Jobs, Jobs, Jobs

This could fix the ailing economy in a hurry: double American exports by 2015. The White House thinks it could create two million jobs - but that, of course, is easier said than done.

That ambitious goal was first outlined by Obama during his State of the Union address back in January. Since then, we haven't heard much about it. Today we'll get some details.

But experts say most of the ideas are either unrealistic or simply out of Obama's control. For example, China could allow its currency to rise 40%, which would make U.S. exports more competitive. China is moving in that direction - but but not that much and not that fast.

Obama could also lower taxes on American companies that do business abroad, but that contradicts his pledge to lower the deficit by ending tax breaks for big U.S. firms.

One thing Obama does get credit for so far: he has resisted efforts to ignite trade wars with countries that have unfair trade policies - the president thinks that would hurt Americans just as much as foreigners.

Looking ahead: Obama hits the road tomorrow and Friday. He'll talk jobs and the economy in Kansas City and Las Vegas - and also campaign for Democratic candidates - including struggling Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.

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The Schedule


EDT

9:30AM In-Town Travel Pool Call Time

10:00AM THE PRESIDENT and THE VICE PRESIDENT receive the Presidential Daily Briefing
Oval Office
Closed Press

10:30AM THE PRESIDENT meets with senior advisors
Oval Office
Closed Press

11:25AM THE PRESIDENT delivers remarks on the administration’s commitment to export promotion to grow the economy and support new American jobs
East Room
Open Press (Pre-set 10:30AM – Gather Time 10:55AM – North Doors of the Palm Room)

12:00PM THE PRESIDENT and THE VICE PRESIDENT receive a briefing on the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Oval Office
Closed Press

12:30PM THE PRESIDENT and THE VICE PRESIDENT have lunch
Private Dining Room
Closed Press

2:00PM THE PRESIDENT and THE VICE PRESIDENT meet with Secretary of the Treasury Geithner
Oval Office
Closed Press

3:30PM THE PRESIDENT and THE VICE PRESIDENT meet with Secretary of State Clinton
Oval Office
Closed Press

Briefing Schedule

1:30PM Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs