Press Release - Cong. Carter Hails Strong Economy

CONG. CARTER HAILS STRONG ECONOMY
Jobs, Wages Increasing

Washington, DC, Oct 9 - Representative John Carter (TX-31) praised news of increased jobs and wages as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). According to the DOL, 51,000 jobs were created in September for a total of more than 5.8 million new jobs since August 2003. The Department of Labor also announced that the unemployment rate fell to 4.6 percent and that average hourly earnings grew four percent over the last year, translating into significant wage growth for American workers.

"The Department of Labor's report for September proves that pro-growth policies continue to work; helping create jobs, bolster the economy, and reduce the deficit," Congressman Carter said. "By alleviating tax increases, Americans are able to determine how best to spend their money, rather than leaving it to bureaucrats in Washington. The positive economic news can be seen across the country, from increased consumer spending to rapidly decreasing gas prices. I will continue to promote economic initiatives that allow more Americans to achieve economic strength and success."

This DOL announcement marks 38 consecutive months of sustained job creation. The Department of Labor also reported that first-time claims for jobless benefits dropped 17,000 last week to 302,000, their lowest level since late July. Additionally, department stores reported an 8.4 percent increase in sales compared to last September.

http://carter.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=51392