Michigan unemployment rate spikes in May

[Lefty48197]

http://www.detnews.com/2004/business/0406/17/a01-186902.htm


The number of people looking for jobs in Michigan has jumped by 38,000 since last month. Our jobless rate has now risen to 6.5%, up from last month's 6.1%, compared to the national unemployment rate of 5.6%. This is unusual, because in Michigan, the unemployment rate usually goes DOWN as the warmer weather approaches.
Our rising unemployment rate is even more surprising, in light of President Bush's comments, while in Michigan recently. Bush said, "The economy is strong, and getting stronger".
Well, maybe I shouldn't be too surprised by Bush's assessment. You see, when we Democrats talk of a "strong economy", we're talking about one where the people have jobs, and are able to pay their bills. When Republicans talk of a "strong economy", they speak of a situation where wealthy corporate executives, and investors, get richer and richer. "The people" having jobs, is of no concern to them. They're perfectly content to depend on ten year old Chinese girls for labor.

"I'm a bit surprised. Four tenths of a percent increase... ...That's a lot of new people seeking work and not able to find it.", said Paul Reagan (no relation I hope), professor at Wayne State University's School of Business Administration.
"A significant share of those applying are former top executives who once commanded six figure salaries but have been out of work for months, if not longer. This is the way it's been in the manufacturing sector for three years. I've been doing this since 1980. I have never seen it so bad for so long", said Joyce Hood, a recruiter for a manufacturing and industrial based job recruiting agency.