Jobless Rates Rise in More Than Half of Election Battleground States

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates increased in February in nine of 17 battleground states that could decide the presidential election in November.

Jobless rates fell in six of the most contested states and held steady in two others, according to figures released Wednesday by the Labor Department.

Polls consistently show that jobs and the economy are the most important issues to voters, and that a majority think Democrat John Kerry is better suited to improve the situation than President Bush. The economy is growing, but hiring is near a standstill.

Overall, unemployment rates were lower in 24 states and Washington, D.C., in February, higher in 19 states and unchanged in seven, the report said. Businesses cut their payrolls in 27 states and increased hiring in 20 states and Washington, D.C. Hiring essentially was unchanged in three states.

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