Bush defends his economic views, policies

CRAWFORD, Texas - President Bush, defending his record and his rhetoric, said yesterday his administration had been "clear and candid" about the nation's economy.

"We saw the economic slowdown coming, we were up front about these concerns with the American people, and we've been taking decisive action," Bush said in his weekly radio address.

The president's comments appeared at least partly in response to a drumbeat of criticism from Democratic leaders, who say his view of the economy is rosy and unrealistic.

Bush sounded an upbeat tone following a modest uptick of economic news last week.

The economy grew in the first quarter of the year, but only by a meager 0.6 percent. Yet it was not the contraction some analysts feared. Employers slashed fewer jobs in April than they had in earlier months. The unemployment rate in April also fell slightly.

"No temporary setbacks can hold back the most powerful force in our economy - the ingenuity of the American people," Bush said. "Because of your hard work and dedication, I am confident that we will weather this rough period and emerge stronger than ever."

The president is counting on a short-term economic boost to help. In a deal he reached with Congress in February, tax-rebate checks of up to $600 for individuals and $1,200 for couples are on their way to more than 130 million households.

Indiana Rep. Andre Carson said more was needed.

"While these recovery rebate checks are a significant first step, we know we must do more to help workers who have lost their jobs and families who are at risk of losing their homes," Carson said yesterday in the Democrats' weekly radio address.

"Democrats are also fighting for a second economic stimulus package," he said, "and are working hard to enact comprehensive housing legislation that will help more Americans avoid foreclosure and hold on to the American dream."