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“ Democratic priorities are clear: we will fight to get the economy back on track, we will create jobs, and we will help unemployed workers. ” |
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Pelosi: 'House Vote a Victory for Unemployed and a Rejection of Heartless GOP Policies'
Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement late today after the House of Representatives approved a Democratic amendment to authorize funding for a six-month extension of unemployment benefits. The amendment, offered by Congressman George Miller of California, passed 227 to 179:
"This vote is a victory on behalf of an estimated 2 million unemployed workers in America who otherwise would receive no help, and a clear rejection of the heartless Republican policy that for too long has neglected them.
"Democrats have been fighting to extend these benefits for months, in the face of resistance from the Republican leadership and indifference from the President. After three years of being in complete control, Republicans have added more than $3 trillion to the national debt and lost nearly 3 million jobs, the worst record on job creation since Herbert Hoover.
"While the President claims that "jobs are on the rise," based on 1,000 new jobs nationwide in December, there are still more than 8 million Americans who are unemployed, and 2 million workers who will receive neither a paycheck nor unemployment benefits over the next six months. That includes more than 300,000 people in my home state of California alone.
"Jobs have not come back, and the jobless have not gone away. But this Republican Congress has no compassion, no plan to create jobs, and no interest in doing anything other than handing out tax cuts to those who need them the least.
"Unemployment benefits are not a handout. They are temporary help to willing workers who are unable to find jobs in this weak economy.
"Unemployment benefits will help stimulate the economy, as studies have shown that each dollar spent on unemployment benefits will boost the economy by $1.73. Families will spend the money right away on necessities such as food, clothing, and medical care. That in turn will grow the economy and create jobs.
"This vote is a first step toward helping unemployed workers. Now Congress must quickly approve money for this extension to reflect the will of a majority of the House."
“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”
Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi
