WASHINGTON, DC – Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after the Department of Labor released its jobs report for March:
“While our economy continues to add jobs, albeit more slowly, it’s critical that we remember what economic prosperity really means. The unemployment rate means little to someone unable to keep all the bills paid while saving for a child’s education and for a secure retirement. Full employment must include more sustained wage growth so that workers in our economy can pursue good careers that bring a secure place in a strong middle class.
“I’ve been spending the past few days meeting with Americans in the Upper Midwest, hearing from workers, college students, business owners, and local government leaders on the front lines of our changing economy as part of House Democrats’ Make It In America Listening Tour. In the seven states the Listening Tour has visited across America’s Heartland, I’ve heard the same message: Americans want a Congress that concentrates on raising wages, investing in infrastructure, making it easier for entrepreneurs to launch new businesses and create jobs, and helping more of our people learn the in-demand skills needed to succeed in the twenty-first century economy. House Democrats are going to keep listening to Americans as this tour continues and prepare an economic agenda that incorporates their feedback and addresses their concerns.”