Research Library

The pandemic spurred a rollercoaster of quick, subsequent economic events in three years that might normally occur across three decades: record unemployment, a brief recession, federal assistance, highest inflation since the 1980s, interest rate increases, and in 2023, concerns regarding a looming recession. Some U.S. consumers have dealt with the aftermath of this whiplash by shifting their spending and saving behaviors. Our experts discuss U.S. consumer trends since the pandemic — what’s stayed the same, new phenomena, and notable policy developments. 

It's been one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. Where do things stand now? Fellow Joe Barnes explores recent developments, including Biden's surprise trip to Kyiv this week, and why the prospect of a full Russian “victory” has long since vanished.

TikTok — the China-owned app that is currently the most popular social platform in America — is at the center of a swirling geopolitical and economic debate. The app has faced criticism from U.S. government officials who say it gives China access to American data, making it a security risk. Here, we discuss the risks, the efficacy of bans, and consider the possibility of a TikTok-less America.

Although President Joe Biden restored a more traditional approach to U.S. foreign policy in his first two years, he has been no Obama 2.0.

As Russia continues to target energy infrastructure, a dangerous winter could be on the horizon for millions of Ukrainians. Bonner Means Baker Fellow Joe Barnes examines the various factors at play and what’s ahead for the brutal war in Ukraine.

Although a Republican House is not a disaster for Biden’s foreign policy, it could complicate his job as he pursues policies toward China and Ukraine, writes fellow Joe Barnes.

After a delay, the Joe Biden administration has issued its National Security Strategy (NSS), a summary of the administration’s foreign policy approach. Fellow Joe Barnes discusses the usefulness and implications of the NSS in this commentary.

Russia is losing the war in Ukraine, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, faced with this truth, has decided to double down on his efforts. Fellow Joe Barnes explains how Putin has boxed himself into a corner — and why this makes him so dangerous.

The war in Ukraine has taken a dramatic turn. The recent Ukrainian victory in the Kharkiv region has sent a clear message to Putin, who has so far responded with partial mobilization: Russia is in deep trouble in Ukraine.

Biden’s foreign policy retains the usual mix of high ideals and pragmatic self-interest that has been a hallmark of U.S. foreign policy since the Republic’s founding.