VOICED: Obama unveils 3.7-trillion dollar budget plan for 2012

In 2012, President Obama proposed a budget aimed at reducing spending from 10.9% to 7% of GDP, focusing on economic growth. The plan included phasing out tax cuts for the wealthy and trimming tax breaks for energy companies, while also affecting programs for the needy and students. Republicans criticized the proposal, claiming it involved excessive spending and borrowing. The budget marked the start of a contentious political battle between the White House and Republicans in Congress, who demanded significant spending cuts and prepared a counterproposal.

What is one of the main goals of Obama's 2012 budget proposal?

• To increase military spending

• To reduce spending as a percentage of GDP

• To eliminate all tax cuts

• To focus solely on welfare programs

Which group is expected to face tax changes under Obama's proposal?

• Small business owners

• Middle-class families

• Retired individuals

• The wealthiest Americans

What is the Republican perspective on Obama's budget plan?

• It is a balanced and fair approach

• It involves too much spending and borrowing

• It cuts taxes too drastically

• It focuses too much on defense

What action did Republicans take in response to the 2011 budget?

• Called for more welfare programs

• Demanded a $60 billion spending cut

• Proposed an increase in spending

• Suggested a tax increase

When is the Republican counter-proposal for the 2012 budget expected?

• In January

• In April

• In March

• In February