U.S. President George Bush says the nation's entire economy is at risk,
and Congress needs to approve a $700 billion financial rescue
plan.
In a nationally televised address Wednesday night, Mr.
Bush said his administration is taking decisive action and is working
with Congress to address the financial crisis.
Mr. Bush also said action is needed to prevent a long, and painful recession.
He
acknowledged that the expensive bailout package is a "tough vote" for
many members of Congress, but said failure to act would cause more
severe problems later.
Mr. Bush also said he has invited
Republican presidential nominee John McCain and Democratic nominee
Barack Obama to a meeting with Congressional leaders Thursday in
Washington to discuss the issue.