The Stimulus the President Didn't Bring With Him

As a Californian, I feel a little bit used by President Obama.

The president glided into Northern California for two days -- on matters of self-interest. He raised big political money Tuesday night, in an effort to keep a seat he needs in the Senate. On Wednesday, he touted his economic stimulus and alternative energy in the Bay Area, shoring up his political standing.

What was missing from this picture? A commitment by the president to do more for a state that is hurting. California is facing big deficits that have led to layoffs, cutbacks and tax increases that undermine the stimulus. One result is persistent unemployment and a stagnant state economy that is slowing down the recovery of the United States.

One would think Obama would be falling all over himself to help California. Instead, he and his administration have scoffed at California's request for assistance with its short-term borrowing (the federal government, at no cost, could have saved California taxpayers money by issuing a letter guaranteeing some of our borrowing). And in the name of bipartisanship, he went along with foolish demands from Republican senators from Maine to strip the stimulus package of billions in additional aid to states and local governments.

Yes, many of California's troubles are self-inflicted. But we're in an economic crisis. A state that supported Obama with more than 60 percent of its votes deserves better. Mr. President, the next time you come back to California to raise money, bring more federal funds with you.

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