WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA-02), the lead Democratic Appropriator for the Department of Commerce, issues this statement upon release of today's national employment report:

"The nation enters a new year and a new Presidential term with the economy continuing its solid, steady recovery. Thirty-four consecutive months of private sector job growth and almost six million new jobs created during that span show we're on the right path. This past month included strong gains in manufacturing and construction – a good sign. It is imperative for our new Congress to support President Obama's initiatives and enact job-creating policies that keep up the momentum."

SOURCE Office of Congressman Chaka Fattah