Obama tells jobs council of ‘substantial progress’

Published 8:30 am Tuesday, January 17, 2012

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama says his administration has made “substantial progress” in embracing outside ideas on how to solidify the economic recovery.

In comments to his jobs council, Obama sought to show that the administration was taking seriously the recommendations of the broad panel of business leaders. He spoke of success in streamlining the permitting processes and cutting regulations. And he hailed his own attempt to get more power from Congress to shrink the cost of government.

The strength of the U.S. economy will play a huge role in determining whether Obama wins a second term.

Obama assured members of his Council on Jobs and Competitiveness that their proposals are not gathering dust.

Separately, on Thursday in Florida, he will announce a new strategy to boost tourism and travel.