Speaker Hastert: 'American Jobs Grow While Gas Prices Drop, Stock Market Hits All-Time Highs'

Unemployment Rate Dips to 4.6 Percent

10/6/2006 9:33:00 AM


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To: National Desk, Political Reporter

Contact: Ron Bonjean or Lisa C. Miller, 202-225-2800, both of the United States House of Representatives Speaker's Press Office

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Speaker of the House J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL) today issued the following remarks regarding the U.S. Department of Labor's report showing the unemployment rate dipping from 4.7 to 4.6 percent, and job growth holding steady during the month of September following three straight days of record-setting levels on Wall Street and a major decline of gas prices.

"American jobs grow while gas prices drop and the stock market hits all-time highs. September's lower unemployment rate, steady job growth and increased hourly earnings comes on the heels of a record-setting week on Wall Street. This proves that House Republicans' economic policies of tax relief continue to show strong results. The hard work of House Republicans -- who have remained committed to cutting spending and keeping taxes low for American families -- continues to fuel the economic fire. And the 51,000 jobs created in September represent that many more Americans who are working and providing a better life for their families.

"The Democrats would rather talk down the economy with the hopes of winning in November so they can raise taxes and skyrocket spending. Meanwhile, House Republicans will stand together to keep our record-setting economy soaring to new heights."

Note: Average hourly earnings increased $0.04, or 0.2 percent, to $16.84. That was up 4.0 percent from a year earlier.

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