Unemployment rate at 9.1 percent; Huntsman and Pawlenty statements

The national unemployment rate for July slipped down to 9.1 percent, the economy added 117,000 jobs. But let's look back at the Obama administration promise that the jobless rate would not exceed 8 percent. In fact, if we look back at their projection, if the failed-stimulus was not enacted, by now the unemployment rate would be 7.5 percent.

Presidential candidate Jon Huntsman released a statement on the jobless figures a few minutes ago:

The President has had 2.5 years to turn around the American economy and it is clear he has failed. In less than one day, Americans have witnessed a considerable drop in the stock market and yet another jobs report showing an unemployment rate above 9 percent. When President Obama should have been focused on creating jobs, he focused on a government-mandated health care system that the American people didn't ask for and can't afford. What we can't afford now is to waste any more time. We need to implement the type of pro-growth policies and free-market reforms that made Utah the top state for job creation when I was governor. America needs a President who knows how to create an economic environment that allows entrepreneurs to thrive and create jobs. This country will never realize its true economic potential until we enact tax cuts, implement regulatory reform and move toward energy independence.

As did Tim Pawlenty:

Today's dismal jobs report is a far cry from the hope and change that President Obama promised on the campaign trail. Since the President took office, unemployment has risen 17 percent, the federal debt has increased 37 percent and gas prices have doubled. In the last week, the stock market suffered its worst day in years, economic growth was revised down and consumer confidence dropped. Despite these clear and abundant signs that our economy is floundering, President Obama has still failed to deliver a concrete plan to create jobs and promote growth. This lack of leadership is inexcusable and driving our economy toward decline. It's time for a new president to point us back in the right direction, and I am the only candidate who has proposed a specific economic plan that will create jobs and grow our economy.

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