Phil Gingrey: “I rise today to applaud the Republican fiscal policies that have led the United States economy to an expansion rate of…”

“I rise today to applaud the Republican fiscal policies that have led the United States economy to an expansion rate of 3.5 percent in 2005. Over the last year we have experienced real economic successes as a result of our legislation that puts American families first. In 2005 we witnessed historically low unemployment rates, a GDP growth rate of 4.3 percent, and 30 straight months of employment gains. It is no wonder consumer confidence rose last month to the highest level in several years. The current unemployment rate of 4.7 percent is lower than the average rates in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Our policies, Mr. Speaker, are working. And just last month our payroll employment rose by another 193,000 jobs. Mr. Speaker, our economy is strong. Household net worth is at an all- time high. Construction spending is at an all-time high. Homeownership is at an all-time high. I think we can all see the trend developing here. As a Congress, we must adhere to the principles of lower taxes and more responsible government spending. These are the policies that have a proven track record of growing our economy. I am greatly encouraged that economic forecasters project our robust economy will continue in 2006. ____________________”