While September’s jobs report was weaker than forecasters expected, the economy continues to improve. September marked the 67^th consecutive month of private-sector job gains, extending the longest streak on record. The unemployment rate remains at its lowest level since early 2008, and the underemployment rate (U-6) declined last month to 10.0 percent, the lowest level since May 2008.

Economic growth picked up in the second quarter with the third estimate of GDP indicating that the economy expanded at an annual rate of 3.9 percent. In the second half of the year, the economy is expected to grow at an annual rate of 2.6 percent. Many economists warn that economic uncertainty abroad and fiscal brinksmanship in Congress could hinder economic growth.