Obama urges action to tackle gun violence

WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is urging Americans to press Congress to support his proposals to tackle gun violence.

As he begins his second term, the president, in his weekly radio and Internet address, said that Americans should ask lawmakers why a good rating from the gun lobby is more important than keeping kids safe. He's referring to the powerful National Rifle Association, which opposes his new gun proposals.

The president says he's taking steps right away but Congress also 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, Oklahoma Rep. James Lankford is focusing on financial matters. He says any budget Congress approves must address government spending and debt.