Obama Heads to Chicago to Address Economy, Gun Violence

President Barack Obama will travel to Chicago Friday to talk about strengthening the U.S. economy as well as city gun violence.

A White House official said Monday the president will focus on strengthening the economy for the middle class. He also will touch on gun violence, which the White House said has affected many families in Chicago and across the country.

Obama also is expected to address the economy and gun violence in Tuesday night's State of the Union address.

The visit comes shortly after First Lady Michelle Obama attended a funeral for slain teen Hadiya Pendleton. 

The president sent a letter to the girl's family saying he would work as hard as possible to "end this senseless violence."

The visit also follows the president's recent proposals to pass universal background checks and bans on military-style assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines like the ones used in the Newtown, Conn., school shooting.

Chicago is one of three communities, including Asheville, N.C. and Atlanta, Ga. the President will visit. 

Details including the time and location will be released later this week.

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