July 8, 1988

The President. Yesterday I met with Vice President Bush and discussed what's right about America. And the answer is: a lot. You'll be hearing a lot more from us in the coming months. Today we have another piece of good news: Employment is at an all-time high, and unemployment is the lowest since 1974.

During the past 7\1/2\ years, over 17 million new jobs have been created, and the economy remains strong. More Americans are working today than ever before in our history. As they sit around their kitchen tables, more Americans are planning for their future, not desperately searching the want ads for a job.

We continue the longest peacetime expansion in this country's history. The American model of low tax rates, deregulation, and privatization are the policies being emulated around the world. Today's news is more solid evidence that the policies of this administration work, that our philosophy works. I predict that 1988 will be a banner year for Republicans because it's a banner year for peace and prosperity in America.

Now I am called away by a previously scheduled meeting, but Secretary McLaughlin is here with me and is kindly going to take the questions, and probably she'll answer them better with regard to the labor situation than I could.

Vice President Bush's Campaign

Q. When will you campaign with Mr. Bush? When will you campaign with Mr. Bush, Mr. President?

The President. Just beginning almost anytime.

Q. Are you happy with the report on your Attorney General, sir?

Q. Mr. Reagan, what are you going to do about compensation for the victims of the Iranian -- --

The President. All of that's under consideration, but the questions here are on labor and -- Ann [McLaughlin]?

Q. What are you going to tell the farmers next week?

Secretary McLaughlin. Thank you, Mr. President.

Q. When will you have an Attorney General?

Q. How short is your list for Attorney General, Mr. President?

Q. When will you have an Attorney General

The President. All in due time

Note: The President spoke at 10:43 a.m. in the Briefing Room at the White House.

Date
07/08/1988