The president is scheduled to speak at Shaker Heights High School, where he's expected to highlight gains in markets, industry, and employment during his administration, in his first public appearance this election year.
John Green is a distinguished professor of political science at the University of Akron. He says Ohio is a good staging ground for Mr. Obama's re-election bid, as the state's seen some uptick in its economy.
"Real estate seems to be up a little bit, unemployment seems to be down a little bit, manufacturing seems to be improving…in fact, Ohio typically has lead the nation in bad economic news, and now it seems to be doing a little better than the nation," says Green. "So not only is Ohio a critical state in presidential elections, but it would appear - at least for the moment - to be a good place for the President to talk about his plans for the future."
Green says economic instability in Europe could still sour the picture here in the U.S. and that recurring partisan deadlock in Congress could also present challenges for the president.
Mr. Obama is also expected to respond to the outcome of the Iowa Caucuses.
(Story by Brian Bull, Ideastream)