>> i don't think he's limiting. but i think when you compare him to the transformational president obama who came into office versus the president now -- >> will his ideas tonight be big enough to address the big issues. >> then there's reality. >> how much do you think, john that, he will try to kind of go for a theme rather than individual actions? talking about income inequality, trying to grow middle class as opposed to point a, b and c? >> i think point a, b and c will be in service of the larger theme, expanding opportunity for the middle class. i think the white house has been talking about that team. i think the president's going to be talk about how to create more jobs, good jobs and make sure those jobs pay. so if you're working hard you can succeed in this country. the ideas there, some he's going to be able to take on his own and some he'll need congress for. >> i think he's got to convince the american public not to be so pessimistic. for the last ten years, more people have thought we're on the wrong track in this country than on the right track in this country. >> is he pessimistic?