February 2009 Barack Obama speech to a joint session of Congress facts for kids
President Barack Obama addressing the Congress, with Vice President Joe Biden and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi
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| Date | February 24, 2009 |
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| Time | 9:00 p.m. EST |
| Duration | 51 minutes |
| Venue | House Chamber, United States Capitol |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| Type | Unofficial State of the Union Address |
| Participants | |
| Previous | 2008 State of the Union Address |
| Next | 2010 State of the Union Address |
On Tuesday, February 24, 2009, Barack Obama, who was the 44th president of the United States, gave an important speech. He spoke to a special meeting called a joint session of the United States Congress. This was his first big public speech to both parts of Congress.
This speech was a lot like a State of the Union Address. These speeches happen when the president talks to members of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate together. This meeting took place in the House Chamber inside the United States Capitol building.
During this joint session, Nancy Pelosi was in charge as the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. She was joined by Joe Biden, who was the vice president. The vice president also serves as the president of the Senate.
What the Speech Was About
President Obama's speech focused on the country's economy. He talked about ways to help the economy get stronger. He mentioned a plan called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This plan involved spending about $787 billion to create jobs and help businesses.
He also spoke about another program called the Troubled Assets Relief Program. This program was designed to help banks and financial companies. President Obama shared his ideas for the future of the country. He wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to succeed.
The Designated Survivor
For important events like this speech, there is a special safety plan. One person from the president's cabinet is chosen to be the "designated survivor". This person does not attend the event. They stay in a secret, safe place.
This plan makes sure that if something unexpected happens to the president and other leaders, someone important is still safe. This person can then take over the government. For President Obama's speech, Attorney General Eric Holder was the designated survivor.
See also
- First 100 days of Barack Obama's presidency
- List of joint sessions of the United States Congress
Images for kids
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View from the Executive Gallery of the House Chamber
