How is this a good idea? A lot of things beyond our control could screw up the economy again, this might end up being another “Obama said unemployment wouldn’t go over 8%” talking point for Republicans. Much easier to simply let results speak for themselves than to try to raise expectations that you might not match.
Well, by making this prediction, you probably increase the chances of it happening. Some people will be marginally comforted by the fact and spend a little more or hire a couple more people. It’s a sign of confidence and it could spur a little bit more growth, and the more growth, the better Obama’s chances in November.
I don’t think that the above reason balances the negatives that you put forth, though. It’s probably a bad move. Do you have a link for context?
It’s the annual report by the Council of Economic Advisers. The White House can’t hide it, and they can’t control what snippets the news will headline from a 446 page report.