I also want to extend special thanks to Representative Rangel, who has been a key partner with the Administration on important issues such as Empowerment Zones, and on our recently announced New Markets Initiative. Secretary Summers is deeply committed to assuring that all Americans can participate in our Nation's economic growth. I know that he would have liked to be with you today. We are gathered at a time of tremendous strength in the U.S. economy. We are in the midst of the longest peacetime expansion in history.
Inflation is low.
Incomes at all levels are now rising. The unemployment rate is the lowest in a generation, and more Americans are working than ever before. The ingenuity and hard work of the American people propel this economy. And under the leadership of President Clinton and Vice President Gore, we have helped to make these gains possible, by investing in people, opening markets, and promoting the fiscal discipline upon which economic confidence and growth depends. Even in this era of general prosperity, some communities, both urban and rural, are being left behind, and this affects all of us.