Obama thanks fundraisers in D.C

WASHINGTON, June 30 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama Monday thanked about 450 political fundraisers at a Washington dinner for their part in "bringing some change to America."

Speaking at an event sponsored by Obama's National Finance Committee and The National Advisory Board, the finance arm of the Democratic National Committee, the president ran down a list of areas in which he asserted his administration has made progress -- including the economy, stem cell research, fuel efficiency, tobacco advertising, credit card regulation and fair pay for women.

"Lo and behold, we're bringing some change to America," he said.

However, Obama told his audience: "This is when it gets harder. This is when the criticism gets louder."

The president predicted he would sign legislation this year on healthcare reform, energy and financial regulation.