Obama is raising money for his 2012 campaign.

The recently proposed jobs bill, which has encountered opposition from Republican leaders, will be a central part of his message, reports Businessweek.

Obama is receiving some high-profile support during his trip to the western states, which traditionally taps famous figures from the entertainment and business sectors. A $17,900-a-plate fundraiser to be held at the Fig and Olive restaurant has drawn criticisms of insensitivity during tough economic times. Obama's team is scrambling to make up for fundraising efforts that were cancelled during the debt ceiling debates, reports the LA Times.  

The former head of Microsoft, Jon Shirley, hosted a gathering of 65 supporters on Sunday in suburban Seattle who all donated the maximum legal amount of $35,800. 

Obama is scheduled to make nine appearances over his three-day trip. Seven of those appearances are to raise campaign funds.