[Page H318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         UNLEASHING ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF HARDWORKING AMERICANS

  (Mr. ROTHFUS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, last week we received troubling economic 
news. In January, unemployment went up and 169,000 people gave up 
looking for work. And the economy stopped growing and actually shrank.
  I rise today in solidarity with those looking for work and a higher 
income to pay their bills, loans, and mortgages. Those seeking a better 
lot want to know: Where are the jobs?
  Before we address any other issue grabbing headlines today, Congress 
and the President need to make a priority of unleashing the potential 
of hardworking Americans and creating the conditions for a healthy 
economy. We must balance our budget, reform the Tax Code, reduce 
excessive regulations, and expand energy production.
  I call on my colleagues in this House to refocus their attention and 
to work to accomplish these goals so that the American people can get 
back to pursuing their dreams.

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