President Barack Obama is urging Americans to press their leaders to support his proposals to tackle gun violence.

Obama, about to begin his second term, says in his weekly radio and Internet address that Americans should ask lawmakers why an A-grade from the gun lobby is more important than keeping kids safe. He's referring to the powerful National Rifle Association, which opposes his proposals.

The president says he's taking steps right away but Congress, too, must act. He's asking lawmakers to pass an assault-weapons ban, universal background checks and limits on high-capacity ammunition magazines.

In the Republican address, Rep. James Lankford of Oklahoma says any budget Congress approves must address government spending and debt.

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Online:

Obama address: http://www.whitehouse.gov

Republican address: http://www.youtube.com/HouseConference