Congressmen Adam Smith (WA-09) and Dave Reichert (WA-08) released the following statement after hosting the Help Identify Real Employment (HIRE) for America Jobs Fair at the ShoWare Center in Kent where nearly 2,400 job seekers met with 90 local employers:

“I am extremely proud that thousands of job seekers joined me and Congressman Reichert to meet with more than 90 employers at today’s event," said Smith. "Our goal is to put Americans back to work, and it starts by making sure we connect employers with potential employees who have matching skills and needs.  That is exactly what happened today. This bipartisan effort brought our community together to address the most important issue our country faces right now, and we’re grateful to everyone who participated for making it a success.”  

“The HIRE America jobs fair was a success,” said Reichert. “I spent the entire day talking with local employers and job seekers, hoping to fill hundreds of jobs. It’s too early to tell exactly how many positions will be filled but I’m confident, after speaking with those in attendance, that today’s bipartisan effort was effective. I spoke with constituents who were eager to make an impression and employers who were energized by their interviews with capable candidates. What a blessing it would be to a family, a business, and the community if we can place one employed person in a new position this holiday season.

“The community pulled together to make this successful event possible. I plan to take this best practice – along with a strong spirit of bipartisan cooperation – to Washington, DC in hopes of spreading this message with my colleagues.”