A dismal labor report Friday showed the economy added zero net workers in August, intensifying pressure on President Obama to unveil a major jobs initiative during his speech to Congress next week.
The Labor Department report, which showed the unemployment rate stuck at 9.1 percent, feeds into concerns that the economy could be at risk of another recession. It was the weakest jobs report since September 2010.
Republican leaders swiftly cited the report as renewed evidence that the Obama administration must change course.
"Private-sector job growth continues to be undermined by the triple threat of higher taxes, more failed 'stimulus' spending, and excessive federal regulations," House Speaker John Boehner said.
He and House Republican Leader Eric Cantor urged Obama to reach across the aisle when he unveils his jobs plan next week.
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