Himes Says Shays is “Fundamentally Wrong” on Economy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, September 05, 2008
Criticizes Republican for praising economy's strength
NORWALK, CT - Appearing in front of a recently closed business in East Norwalk, Democratic Congressional candidate Jim Himes criticized Republican incumbent Chris Shays for praising the strength of the economy.
"Chris Shays says our economy is fundamentally strong. He is fundamentally wrong about that," said Himes. "Everyday, I meet people who are trying to figure out a way to deal with saving for college, record healthcare premiums, and sky-high gas, food, and heating oil prices all at once. It is shocking that Chris Shays would look at strugglingfamilies, stagnant wages, andrecord national debt and deem that 'strong.'"
Himes was responding to recent remarks in which Shays praised the strength of the economy. In a recent interview, Shays said, "Our economy is fundamentally strong. No one can disagree with that." Shays later repeated the assertion.
"Clearly, Chris Shays believes that the Bush economic policy is working," said Himes. "I fundamentally disagree. In the last eight years, median incomes in Connecticut have declined, unemployment has doubled, one in ten residents haven't had healthcare, and foreclosures have sky rocketed."
Saying he believed in increasing opportunity and smart regulation in response to issues like the subprime mortgage crisis, Himes made it clear that he will support a different economic approach in Washington.
"In Congress, I will cut taxes for the middle class by creating tax credits for families that invest in education, a first home, and savings," said Himes. "By cutting taxes for the middle class, we can restore opportunity and rebuild the fundamentals of a strong economy."
Himes also noted that issues like healthcare, energy policy, and education are also key "fundamentals."
"Lack of healthcare is a fundamental problem. Lack of affordable energy is a fundamental problem. And stretching our schools thin with unfunded mandates is a fundamental problem."
Noting that Shays supported "more of the same" failed economic policies, Himes added,
"In Congress, I will not rest until our economy once again offers hope and opportunity to each and every American."
###
