SACRAMENTO—California reported 342,747 continuous unemployment claims in a single week, the highest number among U.S. states, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton launched a
new attack on the state's economic situation and the direction of the
Democratic administration.
"California now has the highest unemployment claims in
the country. 342,747 claims in a single week. More than Texas and New York
combined!" Hilton stated in a message posted on social media, in which he
also blamed the Democratic administration for the situation and called for an
end to what he described as a "Becerra machine."
Official figures show that California led the nation in
continuous claims, with 342,747 during the week ending July 11. New York
registered 168,427 and Texas 153,187; combined, both states totaled 321,614, fewer
than California.
Hilton, who will face Democrat Xavier Becerra in the
November gubernatorial election, is reminding voters of the state of the
economy, the cost of living, and the unemployment that California has suffered
under Democratic administrations.
The dispute over the interpretation of these indicators is
occurring in the midst of the election campaign, with both candidates
presenting radically different visions of the state of the Californian economy
and the policies needed to recover jobs and reduce costs for residents.
The figure of 342,747 continuing jobless claims, however,
once again places California's labor market at the center of the election that
will determine the state's next governor.