In many ways, Obama embodies the American Dream. He speaks of how his mother and grandmother sacrificed to provide him with opportunities they never had.
With unemployment far higher than most economists expected when he took office, Obama will need to convince Americans that the dream is still attainable.
Two groups hit hard by unemployment � unionized labor and college students � were also among Obama's strongest supporters in his presidential campaign.
Jason Harper, 22, can't find a job in his chosen field, advertising, despite a Princeton degree and more experience than most people his age. "I thought that it would be a bit easier than it is to find a job," he said. He's now looking for advertising jobs in Germany.
While younger people still support Obama, the longer they go without jobs commensurate with their expensive educations, the less happy they will be.
A big test for Obama comes next year, when most members of Congress face mid-term elections. High unemployment breeds angry voters, and a normal response is to toss out the incumbent.
One can only hope...I remember talking to a guy who was working as a freelancer with a cable company who said he was voting for Obama because he would "make a lot of money like he did under Clinton." I wonder what he thinks now or if he even has a job.