The opponents of this measure and those who’ve authored various so-called soak-the-rich bills that are floating around this chamber should be reminded of something:  When they aim at the big guy, they usually hit the little guy.  And maybe it’s time that stopped.

This then is my short-term plan.  Your part, members of Congress, requires enactment of these common-sense proposals that will have a strong effect on the economy, without breaking the budget agreement and without raising tax rates.  And while my plan is being passed and kicking in, we’ve got to care for those in trouble today.  I have provided for up to $4.4 billion in my budget to extend federal unemployment benefits, and I ask for Congressional action right away.  And I thank the committee—­well, at last.  And let’s be frank.  Let’s be frank; let me level with you.

I know, and you know, that my plan is unveiled in a political season.  I know, and you know, that everything I propose will be viewed by some in merely partisan terms.  But I ask you to know what is in my heart.  And my aim is to increase our nation’s good.  And I’m doing what I think is right; I’m proposing what I know will help.  I pride myself that I’m a prudent man, and I believe that patience is a virtue, but I understand politics is, for some, a game and that sometimes the game is to stop all progress and then decry the lack of improvement.  But let me tell you, let me tell you, far more important than my political future—­and far more important than yours—­is the well-being of our country.  And members of this chamber, members of this chamber, are practical people, and I know you won’t resent some practical advice:  When people put their party’s fortunes, whatever the party, whatever the side of this aisle, before the public good, they court defeat not only for their country, but for themselves.  And they will certainly deserve it.

And I submit my plan tomorrow.  And I am asking you to pass it by March 20.  From the day after that—­if it must be—­the battle is joined.  And you know, when principle is at stake, I relish a good fair fight.

I said my plan has two parts, and it does.  And it’s the second part that is the heart of the matter.  For it’s not enough to get an immediate burst.  We need long-term improvement in our economic position.  We all know that the key to our economic future is to insure that America continues as the economic leader of the world.  We have that in our power.  Here, then, is my long-term plan to guarantee our future.

First, trade:  We will work to break down the walls that stop world trade.  We will work to open markets everywhere.  And in our major trade negotiations, I will continue pushing to eliminate tariffs and subsidies that damage America’s farmers and workers.  And we’ll get more good American jobs within our own hemisphere through the North American Free Trade Agreement, and through the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative.  But changes are here, and more are coming.  The work place of the future will demand more highly skilled workers than ever, people who are computer literate, highly educated.