Economic Development

Our nation has experienced the worst job growth in 58 years. There are reports of layoffs almost every week, unemployment and under-employment are rampant, growth is stagnant, stocks and savings have plummeted, poverty is on the rise, access to health care is declining while health care premiums are rising, many of our schools are wanting, and there is no end in sight.

The nation's financial realities require the government to pave a road to recovery that is not strewn with nails. We must have a comprehensive economic plan that is also fast-acting, fair and fiscally responsible - supplying stimulus in the near-term and a responsible fiscal policy in the longer-term. It should include doing what is necessary for major programs such as Social Security and Medicare without accounting tricks, any additional tax breaks should be for working Americans, tax relief for small businesses, and assist struggling states on issues like homeland security and medical care. It is long past time to jump-start this economy.

Additional material:

• Jul. 9, 2004: USX-Southworks Redevelopment
• Feb. 20, 1998: 30 Years After Memphis