The public sector certainly includes the Department of Labor. Those are jobs that are available. They are open and they are good paying jobs. The government as a whole has been actually retrenching under President Clinton's leadership.

The quote by Alexis Herman emphasizes the role of the public sector in providing employment opportunities. By highlighting the Department of Labor, she draws attention to a specific governmental body that manages job programs, supports workers, and ensures that available positions are accessible to the public. The key point is that these jobs are open and good paying, signaling that the government can be a stable and viable source of employment.

Herman also comments on the broader context of government retrenchment under President Clinton's leadership. The term retrenchment refers to the reduction of government size, spending, or involvement in certain areas. Here, she contrasts the overall downsizing of government functions with the availability of public sector jobs, suggesting that despite broader cutbacks, some employment opportunities remain robust and meaningful.

The origin of this statement likely comes from Herman’s role as Secretary of Labor under President Clinton, where she was responsible for advocating policies that create jobs and improve workforce conditions. Her remarks reflect a focus on both economic realities and the value of public service, highlighting the government's responsibility to maintain accessible and well-paying employment even amid policy shifts.

In essence, the quote underscores the dual reality of government downsizing and job availability, reminding the public that while some areas may be contracting, the public sector continues to offer stable, quality employment opportunities that serve the nation's workforce.