Obama on Labor Day: Don't take rights for granted

WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is asking Americans this Labor Day to think about the rights and benefits that people often take for granted.<br /> <br /> In his weekly radio and Internet address, Obama says he's optimistic about the growing economy. He says decisions made now will determine whether the recovery will pick up speed.<br /> <br /> Obama says workers and unions fought for things like Social Security, Medicare, workplace safety laws and the right to organize. He says those fights built a stronger middle class.<br /> <br /> Obama says to strengthen the modern middle class, the U.S. must raise its minimum wage. He says states and businesses have raised wages already and Congress should, too.<br /> <br /> In the Republican address, Rep. Larry Bucshon of Indiana says Republicans are focused on creating jobs, lowering costs and restoring opportunity.<br /> <br />