The federal budget and Social Security will be the key topics of President Bush's State of the Union address tonight.

The budget, to be unveiled next Monday, is expected to be an especially tight one. According to The Washington Post, Bush will propose a "virtual freeze" in spending unrelated to defense or homeland security.

Bush has made Social Security reform one of his top priorities. Although details are unknown at this time, he wants to create private investment accounts for workers in a partial privatization of the system. The effort is opposed by Senate Democrats.

The speech will provide a background for the State of the Indian Nations address to be delivered on Thursday by National Congress of American Indians President Tex Hall. He will cover a number of areas, including economic development, housing, homeland security and trust.

The Indian Nations address will take place at the National Press Club at 12pm Eastern Standard Time. A live broadcast will be available at http://www.connectlive.com/events/ncai.

Get the Story:
Bush Speech to Focus on Budget (The Washington Post 2/2)
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Much of President's Address to Focus on Social Security (The New York Times 2/2)
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Democrats Claim Votes to Halt Social Security Plan (The Washington Post 2/2)

Relevant Links:
National Congress of American Indians - http://www.ncai.org

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