Other issues draw attention away from economic problems . White House , fear of shutdowns , fears of starting war have been obstacles . Still , the deficit has been reduced , and the economy is recovering . Republicans shifted the conversation from economic stimulus to deficit reduction . White House spokesman : ` ` We ' ve cleared away the smoke from the financial crisis ''
Other issues draw attention away from economic problems . White House , fear of shutdowns , fears of starting war have been obstacles . Still , the deficit has been reduced , and the economy is recovering . White House spokesman : ` ` We ' ve cleared away the smoke from the financial crisis ''