Washington- Congressman Joe Pitts (R, PA-16), issued the following statement in response to the Commerce Department release of Gross Domestic Product figures showing that the economy contracted by one percent in the second quarter of 2009:

“Today’s new data shows that the economy remains weak and yet the Democrats steadfastly advance legislation that would hold it back by increasing the price of energy, experimenting with healthcare, and raising taxes on small business.

“President Obama promised to focus first on jobs, but his only solution so far has been a $787 billion ‘stimulus’ bill that was filled with non-stimulative liberal priorities. Less than ten percent of the money appropriated has actually been spent and the bill has failed to hold back rising unemployment—its primary purpose according to the President.

“For a real stimulus, we need to free the economy from the taxes and government regulations that are holding back growth.”

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