Press Release

Gutierrez Statement on Employment Report

EXTON, Pa.—Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today released the following statement on the February Employment Report which showed 243,000 jobs were created last month:

"Today’s solid employment number is a vivid reminder that our economy is off to a strong start in 2006. This year we have seen encouraging economic data showing that workers are making more money, consumers are spending with confidence, and residential construction activity is increasing.

"President Bush’s pro-growth economic policies have helped create nearly 5 million jobs since August 2003 and are working to expand our economy at a healthy rate. The President’s American Competitiveness Initiative will help maintain this positive momentum and strengthen our leadership role in the global economy. By increasing investments in research and math and science skills we can develop new technologies, create higher paying jobs, and raise the standard of living."