Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, who recently asked President-elect Barack Obama for funds, has reacted to Obama’s proposed stimulus package.

“I applaud President-elect Obama’s plan to kick start our economy and create millions of new jobs,” Strickland said. “And I strongly support his call to act quickly in this time of national crisis.”

It is estimated that the sum of Obama’s stimulus package could reach $775 billion or even more.

“His proposal to spur an advanced energy industry while also investing in our critical infrastructure is exactly the kind of visionary strategy America needs right now,” Strickland said.

“And I am thankful to President-elect Obama for his commitment to ensuring that states and communities have the resources needed to avoid cuts to essential services such as education, health care and public safety.”

Strickland, in announcing a projected $7.3 billion deficit next year said there will continue to be across-the-board cuts in spending.

Strickland responded last week to a recommendation by the 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force’s recommendation to raise Ohio’s gasoline tax by 13 cents a gallon.

“The Governor does not believe that a tax increase in the midst of an economic recession would be productive,” said Strickland spokesman Keith Dailey.

“I am hopeful that the Congress will move forward with President-elect Obama’s blueprint to create millions of new jobs while ensuring that the states are able to provide vital services to our nation’s citizens,” Strickland said.