Washington, D.C. - Despite hopes of job growth, the unemployment rate rose to 9.8 percent, up from 9.6 percent in October. The rise is largely due to 390,000 Americans being laid off or losing part-time jobs in November, while the total number of non-farm payroll jobs grew by a weak 39,000 jobs.     

 

"This recovery remains painfully slow, held back by consumers doubtful of the President's ability to manage the economy and businesses discouraged by Washington Democrats' tax hikes and job blocking regulations," said U.S.Congressman Kevin Brady, the top House Republican on the Joint Economic Committee.

 

"Yesterday's action by the House to raise taxes on the very consumers and small businesses who can get this economy moving again is more of the same failed economic policies that have hindered America's recovery."

 

Noting that 17 months after the recession officially ended no new net jobs have yet been added to the economy, Brady said "It's stunning that trillions of dollars of fiscal and monetary stimulus have failed to jump start this economy. It's a sobering reminder that government doesn't create jobs, and the wrong government actions like we've seen these past two years can certainly depress them."