Drop in unemployment doesn't mesh with Republicans' script

The news Friday that unemployment has dropped a full percentage point since November comes at a tricky time for the GOP, whose political message is centered around the argument that Obama's policies have been job-killers.

The unemployment news also comes at a time when Obama is expected to soon formally announce his reelection plans, and it gives his prospective campaign a boost at a time when uncertainty in Libya and the Middle East have been distracting voters from his economic message. But potential pitfalls lie ahead for the White House. Some economists continue to warn that rising fuel and food prices could hamper the recovery, with Americans having less disposable income to spend this spring and summer.