Marcy Kaptur: “there are two major stories in the news. There is one that we see daily, and that is the story of the war in Iraq. The…”

“there are two major stories in the news. There is one that we see daily, and that is the story of the war in Iraq. The other story we hear little about, and that is the economic war right here at home. Last month the Pentagon announced we will be sending another 100,000 troops to Iraq, and our hearts are with them. They are putting their lives at risk for us. They deserve our support. But last week the Associated Press reported that an even greater number of people, 108,000, lost their jobs, as U.S. companies dealt with the battered economy right here at home. These Americans also work every day to support the ideals of our Nation and the work ethic. They deserve our support. It is also ironic to note that prior to the Pentagon's recent deployment, there were already 300,000 troops in the vicinity of Iraq. In February, according to the Associated Press, businesses here at home shed almost as many jobs, 357,000 more than previously reported; and yet this morning, President Bush announced his opposition to the unemployment extension that we attempted to get here today in the budget resolution, calling it 'objectionable' in the statement of administration policy. We are hearing lots of plans about aid to flow to the Iraqi people, including food and medicine. This is aid that must be provided.…”