Economics
The Numbers That Could Haunt Obama
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With the election approaching, voters will be watching the U.S. economy closely. These stats are among the most worrisome indicators of the country’s health.
2.7% Export Growth: Slowdowns in Europe and China are hurting the growth of U.S. exports. the past year’s increase through July would be even smaller if adjusted for inflation.
58.3% Employment: The share of adults with jobs—the best measure of employment—fell from more than 63 percent in 2007 to 58 percent in 2009 and has barely budged through this August.
-1.2% Industrial Production: The August monthly decline in the output of factories, mines, and utilities was the sharpest since March 2009.