BLUEFIELD —
When the 44th president of the United States was taking the oath of office Monday to begin his second term, local people were thinking about what will transpire in America during the next four years.
President Barack Obama faces issues ranging from the state of the nation’s economy to the debate about gun regulations. Some people visiting the Mercer Mall didn’t know what to expect during Obama’s second term
“Not really,” said Scott Lynch, 30, of Flat Top. “I don’t think he did too well the first time. Definitely, I’d like to see him create more jobs somehow. I don’t know if he can the way things are going.”
A McDowell County resident was not sure if the president could make any improvements on the country’s present situation.
“I don’t have hope for anything,” said Brian Manes, 56, of Iaeger. “The two Bushes (President George Bush and President George W. Bush) messed up everything and it’s going to take a lot to get everything straightened out. And if they (parties) don’t work together, they’re not going to do it.”
One of the newest national debates — whether to enact stricter gun control regulations — was on the mind of some area residents.
“I don’t want him to pass those restrictive gun laws,” said Kimberly Scott, 28, of Flat Top. “I didn’t vote for him.”
A Mercer County resident hoped the president would change the policies he used during his first four years in office.
“I’d wish he would straighten out and fly right,” said Gene Daniels, 68, of Bluefield. “I’m just afraid he’s going to drag the country down so far we won’t be able to catch back up.”
Another person who was visiting with family said she would like to see the president get the national budget in order and address immigration.
“I would like to see them cut spending in the budget,” said Carol Bays, 55, of Hurricane.
Bays said she also hoped to see more secure borders with Mexico, and for immigration reforms that would allow children brought into the country to have access to education and health care. However, adults would have to participate in a process to earn citizenship with “no automatic expectation of entitlement programs unless it is for children,” she said.
Local News
January 22, 2013
Residents have hopes for Obama’s second term
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