News Summary: Obama to address economy in speeches

MAKING A POINT: President Barack Obama on Wednesday is giving the first in a new series of speeches that will draw renewed attention to the economy ahead of key budget deadlines in the fall.

THE DETAILS: Obama will talk about efforts to expand manufacturing, sign up the uninsured for health care coverage, revitalize the housing industry and broaden educational opportunities for preschoolers and college students. He will also promote the economic benefits of an immigration overhaul.

CLOCK IS TICKING: The speech comes just a week before Congress is scheduled to leave for its August recess and is designed to build public pressure on lawmakers in hopes of averting the showdowns over taxes and spending that have characterized past budget debates.