Press Release

Commerce Secretary Gutierrez Statement on January’s Employment Report

MEXICO CITY—U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today released the following statement on the January Employment Report which showed that 111,000 jobs were created in January and the unemployment rate at 4.6 percent:

"Today’s jobs report shows the U.S. economy continues to be healthy and U.S. workers are driving this success. With 111,000 new jobs created in January and more than seven million new jobs since August 2003, the U.S. economy has now had 41 months of uninterrupted job growth. In addition, today’s revised numbers show that over 400,000 more jobs were created in 2006 than previously reported.

"President Bush’s pro-growth policies have delivered solid results to American workers. On average, 187,000 jobs were created each month in 2006 and economic growth for the year was at 3.4 percent. Wages are on the rise, consumers are confident and investors are optimistic about the sustainable health of the economy.

"This week, the President told the country that the state of our economy is strong. Keeping taxes low and promoting open markets for U.S. exports are key parts of the President’s agenda to expand economic opportunity and boost jobs. The President has outlined bold policies to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, responsibly deal with entitlement programs, strengthen public education, and use taxpayer dollars wisely to balance the budget. The President’s pro-growth policies will continue to lay the groundwork for a prosperous and competitive American economy."

U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez is in Mexico City to meet with President Calderón, senior officials, business leaders, and members of civil society to discuss ways to promote opportunity, prosperity, and economic growth in both countries.