Biden: Unemployment numbers show ‘jobs recovery is one of the strongest ever’

President Biden on Wednesday touted the number of unemployment insurance claims, stating that the number represents one of the strongest jobs recoveries ever.

“Today, we received further evidence that our jobs recovery is one of the strongest ever. The average number of Americans filing for unemployment over the last four weeks is now at its lowest level since 1969,” Biden said in a statement.

The four-week moving average for claims fell by 16,000 to 203,750, the lowest level since Nov. 15, 1969. New applications for jobless aide rose slightly last week, totaling 206,000, an increase of 18,000 from the previous week’s revised total of 188,000. 

The president said only 2 million Americans are receiving unemployment benefits, down from more than 18 million when he first took office. He also stated that nearly 6 million jobs were added this year, which is the most in any first year of a president.

“That’s good news for the millions of families who are back to work and will have a happier holiday season this year,” Biden said. 

He acknowledged lingering issues his administration faces, including rising prices, supply chain challenges and COVID-19. However, he stated that his Build Back Better agenda and more vaccinations are the keys to addressing elevated prices for Americans. 

Democratic negotiations with Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) over Biden’s domestic agenda, including a social spending package, are close to melting down this week amid a disagreement over the child tax credit.

Biden, in his statement, touted the COVID-19 vaccination program and the American Rescue Plan as reasons why Americans are back to work.