The success of our economy and the success of our country is directly tied to the success of women. (Applause.) Today, women make up nearly 50 percent of our workforce.

WHITEHOUSE: Remarks by the First Lady at Girls Inc. of Omaha Event

But the real reason for Obama to address the need to reduce long-term deficits and debt directly is because it's the right thing to do for our country -- and he is uniquely positioned to achieve it.

CNN: Obama's chance to lead -- or kick the can down the road

Directly in front of me, the monument to a monumental man: George Washington, Father of our country.

CNN: Inaugural Address