John Kerry Reacts to Bush Economic Remarks: "Nothing More Than a One- Note Empty Promise"

Bush attempted to use a visit to south Florida on Monday to focus on his domestic agenda by giving a speech on the economy. In the speech he was "touting free trade, low taxes and his vision for new immigration laws as cornerstones of a strong economy."

That message has taken on new urgency for the White House as economic growth slows and high gasoline prices sap public satisfaction with Bush administration management of the economy. It came less than 100 days before congressional elections that Democrats hope will catapult them back into power on Capitol Hill.

John Kerry, the Ranking Member of the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, released the following statement response to President Bush's remarks on the economy and small businesses in Miami:

"President Bush's Miami photo op is nothing more than a one- note empty promise. He says he wants to 'strengthen the small- business sector' in this country, but his only policy is cutting taxes for the rich. The result? The Bush Administration is balancing the record deficits on the backs of small business owners. America's entrepreneurs need more than lip service, they need Washington to keep promises. We should take steps to reduce skyrocketing health care costs for small businesses, increase small firms' access to capital and federal contracts, and invest in training and counseling programs to ensure all entrepreneurs get the tools they need to succeed and help our economy grow."