The President began his day with his daily economic and security briefings. President Obama then met with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso. The President together with the Vice President met with Secretary of Defense Gates at 4:30 PM.

At 9:00 PM the President gave an address before a joint session of Congress. His speech was a tour-de force. He combined an attempt to reassure the American people on the future with a very ambitious agenda . The President called for major reform in health care, taxation, and energy independence. His address was extremely well received by both the public and and political pundits. The Republican response was considered poor by most who heard it. Full Address