FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, February 10, 2004

Secretary Evans Speaks to the American Trucking Association

"Thanks to the President’s tax relief, the American economy is strong – and growing stronger. Economic growth in second half of 2003 was the fastest in nearly 20 years; US stock market added more than $3 trillion in wealth in 2003; Consumer confidence rose more than 10 points in December and is the highest since November 2000; and most important: We’re creating jobs. Last week the Labor Department reported the lowest Unemployment Rate in 2 years (5.6%), and the strongest hiring in 3 years (112,000 jobs)."

"The job creation shows that U.S. companies are starting to meet higher demand by hiring new employees – not just relying on greater productivity… This virtuous cycle will continue to create new jobs for months to come. Truckers can feel our economy’s momentum – literally."