Dear Friends,
With unemployment at or above nine percent for 26 consecutive months and zero jobs created in August, it should be more obvious than ever to the Obama administration that we are on the wrong path. It is certainly clear to the 14 million Americans who have been handed a pink slip and have been out of work for months on end.
Last night, the President outlined several proposals for job creation, and I agree with Speaker Boehner that these ideas merit consideration. However, considering tax incentives, infrastructure investment and assistance to local governments is something that the President and Congress will have to closely balance with our nation's massive debt, which has led to an embarrassing credit downgrade and weaker economic standing in the world.
I am willing to work with the Obama administration to find common ground on proposals, such as passing the three pending free trade agreements, long term and comprehensive tax reform, and regulatory reform, that are paid for without job-crushing tax hikes and that will create a better environment for small businesses. As Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, I will ensure that the effect on small business is considered in any proposal that reaches the House floor.
Sam Graves
Chairman