Mass. Gov. Patrick: channel your anger

BOSTON (AP/WPRI) - Governor Deval Patrick , delivering his state of the state address just two days after the surprise election of Republican Scott Brown to the U.S. Senate, is urging voters channel their anger in a positive direction.

Patrick congratulated Brown on his win, but said it's easier to be against something than for something.

"I spoke to Scott on election night and again this afternoon," Patrick said. "We pledged to work together on behalf of all the people in the Commonwealth."

Patrick vowed to improve the economy and fight for more jobs, which he mentioned at least eight times in the speech Thursday night. Earlier in the day the state reported a jump in unemployment numbers.

There were few policy announcements in the address, although Patrick did recommend lawmakers not cut education aid to Massachusetts cities and towns.

Patrick has said he is planning to seek re-election in the fall, but has been struggling with slumping poll numbers.