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Pres. Obama Pitches "Cash for Caulkers" at Home Depot


AT HOME DEPOT: Speaking at a Home Depot in Northern Virginia, President Obama recognized Sens. Mark Warner (D-Va.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Reps. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), Jim Moran (D-Va.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) Commenting on the ubiquitous Home Depot aprons, Obama joked: "What, the senators are too cool to put it on?"

Then, on to the message of the day: "From the moment we took office … we began investing in newer, stronger foundations for lasting growth. One that would free us from the cycle of boom and bust that has been so painful. One that would create good jobs and opportunities for a growing middle class," Obama said. "Clean energy can be a powerful engine for that kind of growth."

Good news: “I just received a report from Vice President Biden that confirms that as a result of the steps that we’ve taken, a major transformation of our economy is well under way. We are on track to double renewable energy production … by the year 2012.”

"The simple act of retro-fitting”" - installing new windows, doors, cooling and heating equipment, etc. - "is one of the fastest, easiest and cheapest things we can do to put Americans back to work while saving money and reducing harmful emissions," Obama continued. (11:19 a.m.)

POTUS said he thinks energy efficiency and retrofitting are "sexy."

"I know the idea may not be very glamorous, although I get pretty excited about it," Obama said.

"Insulation is sexy stuff," he added. "Here's what's sexy about it: saving money."

NOD TO THE HOSTS: "It's fitting that we're here today at Home Depot with folks who play a vital role in helping America’s families build strong homes and strengthen the ones they’ve got," Obama said. "'Cause that’s what we’re trying to do: rebuild America’s house, on a foundation of growth and prosperity."

HAVING IT ALL: "A lot of times, there's an argument about economic growth versus the environment. And with the debate that’s going on about climate change right now, a lot of people say we can’t afford to deal with these emissions to the environment. But the fact of the matter is, energy efficiency is a perfect example of how this can be a win-win," he argued.

Obama wrapped up: "I'm excited about it, and I hope you are, too. See, I told you, insulation's sexy."



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Sources: Politico, MSNBC, Google Maps