Rising Jobless Claims Show Action Needed on Economic Recovery Package and Aid to Auto Industry

Not in a generation have workers faced such challenges, which is why Democrats have repeatedly urged President Bush and Senate Republicans to stop obstructing the economic recovery and jobs bill the House passed in September. Regrettably, Republican opposition to this legislation will force Americans to wait until a new President, a new Congress, and a new year for real economic leadership that will create jobs and lift us out of recession.

With joblessness on the rise, the President must also use his influence among Senate Republicans to help pass legislation that will protect taxpayers while providing short-term assistance to the American automotive industry. The bipartisan bill passed by the House last night requires a restructuring of the auto industry to make it viable, competitive and fully accountable. With one in 10 American jobs tied to the auto industry, we must provide this jump start for an industry that is essential to our nation's economic health.

Congress is prepared to hit the ground running next year and to help President Obama pass his plan to create and save 2.5 million jobs by rebuilding our infrastructure from bridges to broadband and invest in a cleaner energy future. The new Congress will work together to pass this essential economic recovery legislation and get it to our new President's desk as quickly as possible.