Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement in response to the efforts made by House Republicans to block the extension of unemployment insurance:

“It is no secret that our country is experiencing tough economic times. Today, I joined my Democratic colleagues and voted to extend unemployment insurance to the millions of Americans who are currently unemployed. Unfortunately, my Republican colleagues decided to vote against our efforts to give Americans the unemployment benefits they need as they continue to search for work.

“We in the government cannot leave the American people by the wayside; we must help the American people as our country climbs its way out of this economic ditch. We will work to find emergency short-term extensions that will help families get through the holiday season, but rest assured we will not stop fighting for a long term, permanent solution.”

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