WASHINGTON — President Obama, seeking to broaden the appeal of his signature initiative, said Saturday that a proposed $825 billion package of spending programs and tax breaks was critical not only to turn around the economy but also to rebuild the nation for a new era.

In his weekly video address, posted for the first time on the White House Web site, Mr. Obama made the case that the package would help students go to college, protect workers from losing health care, lower energy bills and modernize schools, roads and utilities.

We are so screwed. How is this going to stimulate the economy?