From: Feldmann, Linda [mailto:xxx@email.com]
Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2016 5:32 PM
To: Gabriel, Brian; Velz, Peter
Subject: Pool report No. 2 - potus addresses mayors
POTUS addresses mayors in East Room
POTUS was introduced by Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, president of the US Conference of Mayors, who called Obama "a city guy at heart."
POTUS was greeted with a standing ovation, spoke for about nine minutes. Check quotes against transcript.
"When I took office, I made it a priority to build a strong partnership with mayors in this room and all across this country," he said. "Thanks to all of you, America has made extraordinary progress over the past 7 years."
"Mayors can't wait for Congress. Mayors can't get stuck in partisan gridlock," he said, noting that mayors present are both D's and R's. 'Frankly, if you're a mayor, no one cares what your party is, they care what you get done."
"There's no time for bluster. Your constituents expect results."
Noted that more than 40 cities and counties have raised minimum wage, ditto action on paid family leave. Also noted announcement earlier today that his administration will award 13 cities, states, and counties $1 billion to build "more climate-resilient communities."
Called the lead in Flint, Michigan, drinking water an "inexcusable situation."
Talked about gun violence, benefits of TPP to cities, My Brother's Keeper, opioid addiction, hope of passing criminal justice reform this year, schools, housing, making it easier to vote.
"We've accomplished a lot together on behalf of the American people."
"When cities are strong, America is strong."
Sighted in the room: New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu and senior adviser Valerie Jarrett
Pool was ushered out at 5:13 pm.
--
Linda Feldmann
White House Correspondent
The Christian Science Monitor
xxx-xxx-xxxx (office)
xxx-xxx-xxxx (cell)
xxx@email.com
Twitter: @linda_feldmann
Sent from my iPhone