The U.S. national unemployment rate reached 8.9% in April according to government reports released today. While the number was up, the increase was less than expected, indicating a potentially positive outlook for the future. Many, including President Obama, have suggested that the economy is at the very early stages of a turnaround. Others have warned against being over optimistic, pointing out that the current job market is still exceedingly difficult for those seeking work ? a factor that remains even if things aren't getting worse.
See "U.S. Jobless Rate Hits 8.9%, but Pace of Losses Eases", Peter S. Goodman and Jack Healy, The New York Times, May 7, 2009