Mr Obama warned that the US would not support extremist elements within the opposition coalition.

BBC: US recognises Syria opposition coalition says Obama

Mr Obama warned in December that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad would face "consequences" if he used chemical weapons.

BBC: Cameron fears Iraq effect holding West back in Syria

Mr. Obama warned again about the skyrocketing cost of health care.

NPR: Obama Pitches Health Care Overhaul In Wisconsin

Meanwhile, members of Mr Obama's cabinet have warned that allowing the cuts to go through would force them to scale back on public services.

BBC: Sequester: White House budget cuts talks planned

Some entertainment industry officials warned that Mr. Obama's fundraising might suffer, because he had essentially killed the antipiracy bill.

WSJ: Hollywood Returning to Obama Fold