Biden: Unemployment numbers reflect tough times for many, but signs of hope as well

Biden: Tough times but hopeful signs in economy

WASHINGTON — Vice President Joe Biden says the highest unemployment rate in more than 25 years underscores the tough times many Americans still face, but that the slowing rate of job losses reflects some “signs of hope” too.

Biden said he will join President Barack Obama on Monday in seeking to ramp up the pace this summer of the massive economic stimulus effort that Congress approved earlier this year.

Biden spoke to reporters at the start of a briefing with economic advisers. His comments came as the nation’s unemployment rate jumped to 9.4 percent but the pace of the layoffs slowed again.

Biden said: “To sum it up: Encouraging signs, but a long, long way to go.”