Is 2004 a repeat of 1996??

Economically speaking that is.

If the economy is doing as well today as it was in 1996, can Kerry's claim the economy is in the dumps be called a lie? Can we ridicule him for saying something so foolish? Well the Mobile Register seems to think so and it recommends Kerry picks a different topic to talk about so he won't appear to be a fool during the rest of his job interview (called an election).

The unemployment rate now is the same as it was when President Bill Clinton was comfortably re-elected in 1996. The core inflation rate remains low. Gasoline prices have begun to decline again.

In May, industrial production achieved its healthiest performance in nearly six years. And, as The Associated Press reported, "a nationwide survey of business activity showed widespread strength, fresh signs the economy possesses good momentum."

Also, reported the AP, "In a second report, the Fed said economic activity continued to expand across the nation in April and May, with manufacturing, retailing, residential real-estate markets and bank lending activity faring well."