An open letter to the President & U.S. Congress; State Governors & Legislatures
Urge Action on Job Creation and Economic Stability
21 so far! Help us get to 25 signers!
I am deeply concerned about the recent August jobs report and its implications for our economy. The addition of only 22,000 workers, far below the forecasted 80,000, is alarming. Even more troubling is the revision of June's data, showing a loss of 13,000 jobs—the first month of job losses since December 2020. These figures, coupled with the unemployment rate rising to 4.3%, the highest in four years, paint a worrying picture of our economic health.
The impact on American workers is severe. Long-term unemployment has increased by 385,000 from the previous year, and young workers aged 20-24 are facing a staggering 9.2% unemployment rate, the highest since May 2021. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent real people struggling to make ends meet.
I am particularly troubled by the administration's response to these challenges. Firing the Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner after last month's weak report and claiming the numbers were "rigged" does nothing to address the underlying issues. Instead, we need policies that create jobs and support working families.
The current immigration policies have led to a decline of 1.2 million immigrant workers since January, affecting various industries and potentially exacerbating our economic woes. Additionally, recent budget laws have reduced programs intended to help Americans during economic volatility, leaving many without a safety net when they need it most.
I urge you to take immediate action to address these economic challenges. We need policies that stimulate job growth, support struggling industries, and provide assistance to those facing long-term unemployment. The well-being of our constituents and the stability of our economy depend on swift and effective measures. Please prioritize legislation that will create jobs, support worker training programs, and reinstate crucial economic safeguards for American families.