As the unemployment rate steadily climbs toward an unbelievable 10 percent, it is evident that we cannot tax, spend and bail our way back to a growing economy.

During these tough economic times, Washington needs to follow the example set by the American people: make necessary sacrifices and cut careless spending.

Instead, our federal government continues to push policies that increase wasteful spending and borrowing, while saddling the hardworking taxpayers with the responsibility of covering this impossible tab.

Small business, not government, is the engine that drives our markets. Washington must adopt a plan that will put Main Street back behind the wheel.

Last week, I became a cosponsor of H.R. 470, the Economic Recovery and Middle-Class Relief Act of 2009, a pro-growth alternative to the trillion-dollar stimulus plan that maximizes the capabilities of American businesses, entrepreneurs and investors.

This proposal provides incentive-based relief to individuals and job creators in order to reduce the burden that the government places on both employers and employees. The bill is designed to stimulate economic growth across all sectors and industries.

The road to economic recovery will not be easy; however, it is possible with responsible solutions. Congress needs to follow a course that will revitalize the private sector, restore personal responsibility within our markets, and end the use of taxpayer funded bailouts.

Our country’s families have suffered long enough. It is time to put politics aside, and help our nation get back to work.

Rep. Rodney ALEXANDER is a U.S. Congressman representing Louisiana.