"I think being hopeful is important, and I think talking about working from the center is very important as well," said Rep. Pat Tiberi.
 
"President Obama needs to continue to reach out across the aisle like he has in the past," said Rep. Zack Space.

"I think part of it is actually getting more confidence that we are turning things around that we are turning the corner," said Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy.

Despite the call for unity, it was clear the President still has work to do in bringing Republican critics of his plan and his democratic defenders together.

"The real issue is, does he have the humility to recognize the fact that he's going to need all of us working with him," said Sen. George Voinovich.

"Without this stimulus package, without what the President proposes on housing and on Autos we would be in more trouble," said Sen. Sherrod Brown.

Tuesday night's speech was intended to set a realistic but hopeful tone for what could still be darker days to come.

Ohio lawmakers in Washington had perhaps more reason than most to hope the turnaround comes sooner rather than later.

Governor Strickland was among those watching the President's speech in the nation's capitol Tuesday night.

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