Obama touts recovery of auto industry

USATODAY

President Obama devoted his Saturday radio address to one of his top election issues, the recovery of the American auto industry.

Tying his remarks to the introduction of the new 2013 car models, Obama said the industry was "flatlining" a few years ago, but is now flourishing thanks to a government-led re-organization of General Motors and Chrysler.

"We bet on American workers and American ingenuity, and three years later, that bet is paying off in a big way," Obama said.

The president has frequently touted the auto bailout on the campaign trail. Polls indicate the issue has been notably successful for him in the pivotal state of Ohio, where an estimated one in eight jobs depends on car making..

Republicans also salute the recovery of the car industry. but say most of the economy continues to struggle under Obama's stewardship.

In the weekly Republican radio address, congressional candidate Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma said, "our economy doesn't need more meddling -- it needs more certainty.

"And we don't need more regulators," Mullijn said. "We need more representatives who understand what it takes to create jobs, and who will inspire us to overcome doubt and commit ourselves to a future of growth and prosperity."

In the presidential radio address, Obama says U.S. companies have "some pretty good looking cars coming out" this fall, and suggested it is a preview of a comeback for the economy a whole.

"Next time you see one of those brand new 2013 models on TV or on the lot, think about how far we've come together," he said.