Cliff Stearns: “recent reports and statistics are showing that the American economy has rebounded from the devastation of Hurricane…”

“recent reports and statistics are showing that the American economy has rebounded from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and is back on its historic track of growth and productivity. In November, 215,000 new jobs were created for a total of 4.4 million new jobs over the last 2\1/2\ years. Our economy grew at a solid 4.3 percent in the third quarter, and unemployment is at a low 5 percent rate. In addition, the productivity of American workers is at an impressive annual rate of 4.7 percent, the fastest pace in 2 years. Mr. Speaker, this astounding economic growth has all taken effect ever since we passed, and the President signed, the jobs and growth bill into law in May of 2003. However, we in Congress still have work to do. We must make these tax cuts permanent, cut wasteful spending, and create an environment so that key sectors of our economy, such as the telecommunications industry, can reach their full potential. If we continue on this path, the ultimate winner will be the American people. ____________________”