Democrats want even more government spending

Given all the problems created with the initial government spending explosion, all we need is more spending.

Democrats seized on Friday's report that the nation's unemployment rate has reached a 26-year high of 10.2 percent to call for further tax and spending measures to bolster the economy.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. David Obey (D-Wis.) said the unemployment news was confirmation that February's $787 billion fiscal stimulus was not big enough.

“The bottom line is that additional action is required," Obey said. "An effective short term boost would mean a stronger economy, less unemployment and ultimately lower deficits.”

Liberal Democrats, including Obey, have said for months additional stimulus efforts are needed.

President Barack Obama signed a bill into law on Friday that extends unemployment benefits and a homebuyer tax credit, while also giving a tax break to businesses. The tax break aims to give companies a $33 billion benefit in 2010.

The administration has taken pains to emphasize that the Friday bill does not amount to a second stimulus package. Republicans responded to the economic news by criticizing the Obama administration for pursuing policies in 2009 that they believe have cost jobs. . . . .