Grassroots budget efforts swing into gear

WASHINGTON, March 21 (UPI) -- Grassroots activist networks both supporting and opposing U.S. President Barack Obama's budget swung into action this weekend, observers said.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce began contacting its members to oppose the budget, while Organizing for America, which is affiliated with the Democratic National Committee, Saturday launched canvassing events to support Obama's proposals, the Washington publication The Hill reported.

The chamber's efforts have already resulted in many calls and e-mails to congressional representatives as House and Senate committees prepare to draft a budget resolution based on Obama's proposals, the publication said.

"Everyone knows that the president is cranking up his own grassroots campaign. We are going to try to do the same," said Bruce Josten, executive vice president of government affairs for the chamber, told The Hill.

In a video message to his supporters, Obama said, "Now, passing this budget won't be easy … . That's where you come in. That's why I'm asking you to head outside this Saturday to knock on some doors, talk to your neighbors, and let people know how important this nation's budget is to our future."