2 Million And Counting Lose Unemployment Benefits—Senate Republicans Need To Step Aside

WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today posted on his website a counter showing the running tally of unemployed Americans losing their benefits.  He urged Senate Republicans to stop blocking numerous important pieces of legislation that would extend unemployment benefits, create 350,000 youth jobs, and provide emergency assistance for needy families.

“It is time for Senate Republicans to support Main Street Americans and stop blocking the House-passed legislation that will create jobs and extend unemployment benefits.  Enough is enough.  Over two million Americans are losing their unemployment benefits because of the Senate Republican’s obstruction.  And, as they stand in the way, the number continues to increase.  Just look at the counter on my website showing the number of Americans who are losing unemployment benefits as the Senate Republicans continue to delay our legislation.  The numbers are piling up too quickly.

“The millions of Americans who lost their jobs through no fault of their own do not deserve to be treated like this.  I am calling on my home state Senators to support the people of South Carolina and put an end to this barricade.  Although the national unemployment rate is currently 9.5 percent, South Carolina is at 11 percent.  We need to further stimulate the economy and this cannot be done while Republicans stand in the way.”