In your opinion, what is the most important economical issue facing the United States right now?
Despite the various tribulations that the United States faces including the education reduction, extreme amounts of money spent towards prisoners, two wars, and of course the recession, I would have to say the most obvious, especially within the last few years, would be the unemployment rates. This is because it interests peoples of all ages of all genders. It can be seen from ultimately all classes, whether we look at middle class or upper class. Rates are increasing, and the government is cutting back in all areas including education (seen firsthand) and even in the medical industry. It was expressed that “The share of families with an unemployed member rose from 7.8 percent in 2008 to 12.0 percent in 2009, the highest proportion since the data series began in 1994” (CPS of the Bureau of Labor Statistics). What makes this issue so vital is the fact that the statistics appear to be increasing.
Along with the loss of a job, unemployment also is trailed by many many supplementary issues involving a decrease in that homes income (obviously) and the disruption of the community, possibly increasing crime rates. It may also cause many to suffer a lower income rate than from their previous occupation. Some are even left to lie on their own, with no benefits and little need in the tight work areas. Because of this well known situation it has brought some to their breaking point, leaving them hopeless. For example, “A record 1.21 million people want to work, but said they aren't looking because of the weak labor market” ( Tami Luhby Senior Writer CNNMoney). It is also said that the economy and unemployment is one of the top reasons for suicides and many other life endangering events.
Sure the unemployment rates may fluctuate by one or two percent every couple months but all in all the rates are still too high. This makes it difficult for middle aged individuals and even the younger youth to try and take control on their economic status. Unemployment has not only an effect on an individual level, but also contributes to the global economic crisis that many have tried so hard to fish themselves out of. With many families having to cope under this situation I would have to say the unemployment crisis is definitely a major and most important issue of which the United States faces.
- Reyna Lanzas
Reyna – Your assessment of how the recession does not discriminate against certain members of a social class is extremely accurate. Your opening to your argument is excellent. You make the statement that rates are increasing. To what rates are you referring? Tax rates, unemployment rates, interest rates? Be specific. Most economists state that we have seen the worst of the recession. But why is our economy failing to make considerable gains? I definitely agree this is a big issue. It is a little ironic that President Obama’s State of the Union Address in January 2010 highlighted the issue of creating jobs and decreasing unemployment as the number one priority in this country. It’s unfortunate that several other mishaps (oil spill being a major one) have prevented our president from focusing a majority of his time and effort on this issue. You write extremely well. Be sure to proofread your work, but this is a great start. Content 5; Organization 6; Total 33/36.
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