Obama calls on Congress to extend jobless

US President Barack Obama says more than a million Americans are set to lose benefits at the end of the year if Congress doesn't act.

President Barack Obama

US President Barack Obama is calling on Congress to extend benefits for the long-term unemployed. (AAP)

President Barack Obama is calling on Congress to extend benefits for the long-term unemployed before they expire at the end of the year.

In his weekly radio and internet address, Obama says more than one million Americans will lose benefits if politicians don't act.

He says unemployment insurance is one of the most effective ways to boost the economy and that providing benefits does not stop people from trying to find work.

Republican House Speaker John Boehner has said he is willing to consider extending the jobless benefits.

In the Republicans' weekly address, North Carolina's Renee Ellmers calls on Obama to delay his health care law's requirement that all Americans purchase insurance.

She says the law is particularly impacting women, who often make health care choices for their families.


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Source: AAP


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