    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book II)]
    [December 2, 2005]
    [Pages 1802-1803]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the National Economy
    December 2, 2005

        Thanks to good old-fashioned American hard work and productivity,
    innovation, and sound economic policies of cutting taxes and restraining
    spending, our economy continues to gain strength and momentum.
        Our economy added 215,000 jobs for the month of November. We've
    added nearly 4\1/2\ million new jobs in the last 2\1/2\ years. Third-
    quarter growth of this year was 4.3 percent. That's in spite of the fact
    that we had hurricanes and high gasoline prices. The unemployment rate
    is 5 percent, and that's lower than the average for the 1970s, 1980s,
    and 1990s.
        We have every reason to be optimistic about our economic future. I
    mean, when you think about the news that's come in--the jobs report, the
    recent report on strong economic growth, low inflation, strong
    productivity, lower gasoline prices, a strong housing market, increases
    in consumer confidence and business investment--our economic horizon is
    as bright as it's been in a long time.
        The foundation for growth is strong. It's based upon low taxes and
    restrained Government spending, legal reform, incentives for saving and
    investment.
        The small-business sector is vibrant. Most of the new jobs in
    America are created by the small-business sector, and our entrepreneurs
    are doing well. We got the best workforce in America--in the world.
    People are productive; they're hardworking. Our ingenuity and know-how
    and--is vibrant. This economy is in good shape.
        We're not going to rest until every American who wants a job can
    find one. We're going to continue to work for good policies for our
    workers and our entrepreneurs. I'll continue to push for progrowth
    economic

    [[Page 1803]]

    policies, all aimed at making sure every American can realize the
    American Dream.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 10:45 a.m. in the Rose Garden at the White
    House. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish
    language transcript of these remarks.