WASHINGTON, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- A Florida pastor's Koran burning Saturday could lead to violence against U.S. troops overseas and become a recruiting tool for terrorists, President Obama said.

"I just hope he understands that what he's proposing to do is completely contrary to our values of Americans," Obama said of Dove World Outreach Center Pastor Terry Jones during an interview Thursday on ABC's "Good Morning America."

The planned burning of the Muslim holy book was one of several topics -- including the economy and the Democrats' prospects in November -- Obama discussed with George Stephanopoulos.

The president, expressing frustration, said he wanted Jones to understand "this stunt that he is talking about pulling could greatly endanger our young men and women in uniform who are in Iraq, who are in Afghanistan."

Jones, saying he is praying for guidance, indicated he wouldn't cancel the event scheduled on the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks on the United States.

Calling the event a "recruitment bonanza for al-Qaida," Obama said it could increase "the recruitment of individuals who'd be willing to blow themselves up in American cities, or European cities."

Noting that Jones has called himself a man motivated by faith, Obama said, "I hope he listens to those better angels."

Obama also discussed his initiatives to boost the flagging economy, tax cuts and the upcoming midterm elections during the interview.

Concerning tax cuts, Obama again questioned the Republican Party's push to extend tax breaks for the wealthiest 2 percent of U.S. taxpayers. Obama would let the tax cuts expire for families earning more than $250,000 a year, which the GOP argues would shackle the country's economic recovery.

"There are a whole bunch better ways to spend the money," Obama said of the tax cuts for the top tier of Americans enacted during George W. Bush's administration.

The president also discussed criticism of his handling of the economy and to polling indicating Republicans may make big gains -- even taking control of the House -- in the midterm elections.

Obama said he understands Americans wanting the economic crisis resolved quickly. But he also pointed out the recession and the financial crisis was "a direct culmination" of decisions Republicans made when they controlled the White House and Congress.

"And we have now spent two very difficult years trying to pull the economy out of the ditch, and I just want the American people to understand exactly what the choice is in November," Obama said.

If the election is a referendum the economic situation, "then we're not going to do well," Obama said. "I think everybody feels like this economy needs to do better than it's been doing."

Obama said Americans should reflect about their situation now versus two years ago and which party they think has the better plan to advance the country.

"I think it's very important that the American people understand what the Republicans are offering, which is essentially more of the same," Obama said.

If voters look at what the Democratic and Republican parties stand for, "then we'll win." Obama said. "And so, my challenge, and the challenge of every Democratic candidate who's out there is just making sure the people understand there's a choice here."