Congressman Jerrold Nadler Reacts To Obama's Address

Ellen Ratner speaks with Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) about President Obama's address on health insurance reform. Nadler says Congress should pass the bill President Obama is proposing. He explains how it would be good for small businesses. He says the House will insist on the public option. He also talks about some possible methods of tort reform.

Paul Hodes: Stim plan a "comprehensive approach"

Congressman Paul Hodes (D-NH) speaks to both Jay Goodman Tamboli and Ellen Ratner after the State of the Union Address. Hodes says the speech [by President Obama] was "bold, courageous, honest, and uplifting." Hodes says Obama "is a visionary leader" and gets to the core of things, making it possible for people to understand the challenges we face. Hodes says he feels that the plan is a "comprehensive approach." One thing is clear, Hodes says, his [Obama's] commitment to "making schools work" and the commitment to a good education system is without question. Hodes also said "hello!" to radio host George Russell and everyone listening in New Hampshire, and thanks the people of New Hampshire for electing a leader like Barack Obama. (3:25)

Ben Lujan: Small business is the backbone of our country

Congressman Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) speaks to both Ellen Ratner and Christina Lovato (University of New Mexico, Journalism Program) after the State of the Union Address. Lujan says that he [Obama] spoke to them not just as Congress but as those the American people trusted to do the work entrusted to them. Every action we take, Lujan says, is important to the American people. Lujan then spoke to Christian Lovato, saying he knows that times can be tough, but [we will] make sure they [Amercians] get a quality education. "We all love our country," he said. Lujan also spoke about small businesses, saying if we're able to address the health care issue, we're going to help small businesses, which he says are "the backbone of our country." (5:14)

Bernie Sanders: Stim Package a "huge step forward"

Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) speaks to Talk Radio News Services' Bureau Chief Ellen Ratner after President Obama's State of the Union Address. Sanders says he thinks this country has been crying out for real leadership, and finally after eight years a president has the courage to face the problems in our country. The solutions, he says, will not be easy, but will move our country in a different direction, and he says he thinks the President is trying to reach out to as many people as possible. "Let's take a deep breath," Sanders says, this is a stimulus package that is a "huge step forward." As for Vermont itself, Sanders says he feels that the immediate goal is to not fall into a depression, since we are in a "very deep recession." (3:55)

Dalai Lama gives Ellen a scarf

Bureau Chief Ellen Ratner gets a scarf put around her neck from the Dalai Lama.