Pelosi Calls on Bush to Support Stimulus Package to Create Jobs, Grow the Economy and Bring More Stability to Main Street

Contact:Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi today called on President Bush to support an economic stimulus package that will create jobs, grow our economy and bring more stability to Main Street:

"For months, Democrats have been calling on President Bush to support an economic stimulus package that will create jobs, bring in much needed revenue to local and state governments greatly impacted by the financial crisis and provide immediate assistance to the American people. On Friday, September 26th, the House passed a plan to create jobs, build essential infrastructure, help states meet soaring health care costs, expand emergency food programs, and extend Unemployment Insurance benefits. But a similar plan was blocked from consideration by Senate Republicans.

"The need for action is long overdue. Nearly 800,000 jobs have been lost over the last nine months -- 159,000 alone last month, the highest in five years -- with most economists predicting substantial more job losses before the economy recovers. As a result, states are cutting vital services in key areas like education, public safety, health and children's services. More than 30 states are projecting budget deficits of over $50 billion.

"The House was able to respond within two weeks to address the financial crisis, but strong action is also needed to address the unemployment crisis. Our nation's economic situation is dire and the urgency is clear. What is needed is leadership by the President and his support of a stimulus package that is essential to our nation's economic recovery."