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KEOKUK, IA -- Iowa Congressman Dave Loebsack visited the Tri-States Wednesday afternoon.  He was at Griffin Wheel in Keokuk, talking about economic development efforts.  This is part of a week long tour.

The congressman has met with leaders, toured local businesses, and addresses the economy. We asked the Congressman if it's possible to achieve economic growth and development in these tough financial times. He says it is.

Loebsack believes if an economic stimulus package is passed by Obama, that would be the boost Iowa families need.

"That will be good for Southeast Iowa. That will be good for America. That would be good for all of Iowa. That will be a jobs creator, it will invest in infrasturcture. There are many places like Keokuk that are facing mandates to improve their sewer system. This is something I think can help," he said.

Loebsack says he would like to have a stimulus package passed before Obama takes office, but doesn't think that's possible. Instead he hopes to have a package on Obama's desk, ready to sign.

We also asked Congressman Loebsack what he thinks about President Elect Barack Obama's recent cabinet picks. After weeks of discussion, New York Senator. Hillary Rodham Clinton accepted as Secretary of state while Defense Secretary Robert Gates will stay on at the Pentagon.

Other Cabinet picks include Eric Holder as attorney general, and Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano to run the Department of Homeland Security. He announced on December 3, that New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson will step in as commerce secretary.

Loebsack says Obama has the right idea.

"I gotta tell you. Barack Obama has done what I had hoped he would do. I first supported him in December before the caucuses, and that is to reach across the aisle to make sure he doesn't just include Democrats, but Republicans in his cabinet as well," Loebsack said.