"Forty-one states are likely to face budget shortfalls this year or next, forcing you to choose between reining in spending and raising taxes," Obama said. "Programs for the needy are at risk. Libraries, parks and historic sites are being closed."
Vice President-elect Joe Biden told the governors he hoped they will not criticize the incoming administration for raising the federal deficit as it tries to help them. "I know none of you would do that," he said jokingly. Many states have constitutions that prohibit deficit spending.
The recession and the accompanying increase in joblessness translate into higher healthcare costs for the poor, greater use of food stamps, and added strain on welfare programs, and the governors are seeking help in coping.
They have asked for at least $40 billion to help pay for healthcare for the poor and disabled and perhaps $136 billion more in infrastructure projects in the legislation, which Democrats hope to have ready for Obama's signature as soon as he takes office on Jan. 20.
Governor Ed Rendell of Pennsylvania, a Democrat who chairs the National Governors Association, told reporters that road and bridge repair projects can get started especially quickly. "We are not here asking for money for governors. If we're asking for any money at all, it's for the citizens of our states," he said.
Obama has said he will make an economic stimulus his top priority, and his aides and congressional leaders have been discussing the outlines of a measure that could exceed $500 billion over two years. The president-elect has said his goal is to save or create 2.5 million jobs in his first two years.
In his brief remarks before the closed session, Obama pledged a partnership with the governors and made a point of promising Republican governors "the same hand of friendship and cooperation that I offer Democratic governors."
