DeGette Comments on Jobs Report Showing Another Month of Decline

DENVER - Chief Deputy Whip Diana DeGette (D-CO) issued the following statement today on the disturbing jobs report from the US Labor Department, which showed that the US economy lost 63,000 jobs in February, the largest monthly job decline in nearly five years.

"I am deeply disturbed by the steep job loss reported yesterday -- the second straight month of reported job losses. It is clear the American economy is struggling because of the Bush Administration’s failed economic policies. A mere 41,000 jobs were created in December – far less than the 82,000 originally reported and well below the monthly increase of 150,000 that is necessary just to keep pace with population growth.  As for January, even more jobs were lost – 22,000.

"Coloradoans and Americans nationwide struggle every day as they watch health care costs skyrocket, college tuition explode, and oil and gas prices hit record highs. This Administration continues to turn a blind eye to the needs of every day Americans.

"The Democratic Congress recently passed a strong stimulus package that will help jumpstart and strengthen our economy putting us on a road to recovery."