Jeb Bush said Americans need to “work longer hours” but later clarified what he meant. Was his comment out of touch?

In an interview with the editors of the New Hampshire Union Leader, Jeb Bush talked about his goals for a 4% US economic growth. The interview was broadcasted above, causing Bush to go under fire for his comment that “We have to be a lot more productive, workforce participation has to rise from its all-time modern lows. It means that people need to work longer hours, and through their productivity, gain more income for their families. That’s the only way we’re going to get out of this rut that we’re in.” The Democratic Party was quick to release a statement condemning Bush for telling Americans to “work longer hours,” calling the line “easily one of the most out-of-touch comments we’ve heard so far this cycle.” Bush quickly clarified what he meant on Wednesday. He said his comments were referring to part-time and underemployed workers. These workers, Bush said, were looking for full-time work but could not find any. “Only Washington Democrats could be out-of-touch enough to criticize giving more Americans the ability to work, earn a paycheque, and make ends meet."