Obama speaks hopefully of movement on jobs bill

[February 10, 2010]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama says he doesn't think it's necessary to get an ideal jobs package out of Congress, but that passing something quickly could build momentum toward greater achievements.

Obama told reporters Tuesday he thinks Democrats and Republicans agree on a number of elements in a jobs bill, including eliminating capital gains for small businesses and finding ways to help community banks lend to smaller firms.

The president also said he thinks "it's realistic for us to get a package moving quickly that may not include all the things that I think need to be done." He said, "Maybe that first package will build some trust and confidence that Democrats and Republicans in Congress can work together. It may take a series of incremental steps."

[Associated Press]

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