Brothers and sisters, thank you for joining me today for this important discussion about the book End This Depression Now with author Paul Krugman, a Nobel-winning economist and New York Times columnist who skewers illogic and false logic about five times a week at least and who always, always, sees the regular lives behind the cold economic numbers and the hard realities that exert so much pressure on our lives.

Paul, I want you to know that you are truly a hero. Let me just say personally that I appreciate how you use the science of economics to lay out arguments that I know are right, in my gut. You do it passionately, and you do it well. You speak the truth. You don’t hold your punches. You say what you mean, no matter how inconvenient.

I imagine it’s frustrating to be an economist who stands pointing the way toward prosperity while so many politicians in Europe and America head down the wrong road or falter instead of walking confidently in the right direction.

Don’t let it get to you, is all I ask.

For my part, and on behalf of the millions of working people of the AFL-CIO, we will continue to push and pull our leaders to do the right thing. We want that broad prosperity, and we’re working for it. For that effort, you are an invaluable resource and a tireless ally.

So, please, don’t stop exposing the lies. Don’t stop describing how strong economies are made. Don’t stop talking about the importance of infrastructure and investment and unions and decent public services.

I am confident that the lessons you teach can and will be learned by our nation again. History has proven it can happen. That’s how we build the greatest middle class on Earth, and we’ll do it again. Your light will help lead the way.

And the release of your book in paperback will make your message even more accessible – and light the way for many, many more people.  Copies of the book are on sale outside this room and I encourage you all to buy it and spread the message. 

Thank you, Paul, for all you do. Please join me in a warm welcome for Prof. Paul Krugman!