Obama looks to set agenda with vow of economic recovery for all

Mr Obama will use his State of the Union policy address tomorrow night, US time, to outline a lasting economic recovery that will “work for everyone, not just a wealthy few”.

The nationally-televised speech offers the most powerful chance for Mr Obama to make a case for a second term.

The speech carries enormous political stakes for the Democratic incumbent who presides over a country divided about his performance and pessimistic about the nation’s direction.

He will try to offer a stark contrast with his opponents by offering a vision of fairness and opportunity for everyone.

In a preview of the address, Mr Obama told supporters by video that the speech would be an economic blueprint built around manufacturing, energy, education and American values.

He is expected to announce ideas to make college more affordable and to address the housing crisis still hampering the economy three years into his term, sources familiar with the speech said.

Mr Obama will also propose fresh ideas to ensure that the wealthy pay more in taxes, reiterating what he considers a matter of basic fairness.

His policy proposals will be less important than what Mr Obama hopes they all add up to – a narrative of renewed American security with him at the centre, leading the fight.

“We can go in two directions,” Mr Obama said in the video. “One is toward less opportunity and less fairness. Or we can fight for where I think we need to go: building an economy that works for everyone, not just a wealthy few.”

That line of argument is intended to answer concerns of voters who think America has become a nation of income inequality, with rules rigged to help the rich.