The Two-Handed Economist

John W. Diamond explores the fiscal consequences of the ongoing government shutdown, plus warning signals from the labor market and new trade deals in Asia.

John W. Diamond analyzes the mounting costs of the government shutdown and how the U.S. economy is faring amid a tug-of-war between demand and supply shocks.

John Diamond explains what led to the current government shutdown and what it reveals about budgetary and policymaking dysfunction in Washington.

John Diamond unpacks the looming government shutdown and explains why a weakening labor market is pushing the Federal Reserve to cut the federal funds rate (even in the face of sticky inflation).

John Diamond unpacks the looming government shutdown and explains why a weakening labor market is pushing the Federal Reserve to cut the federal funds rate (even in the face of sticky inflation).

John W. Diamond breaks down a federal court ruling against President Trump’s tariffs, Trump’s executive order ending the de minimis exemption, and the latest signs of a weakening labor market.

Should the Federal Reserve cut interest rates? On “The Two-Handed Economist,” John W. Diamond lays out what’s at stake for the economy amid persistent inflation, a cooling labor market, and an escalating pressure campaign waged by the Trump administration.

On “The Two-Handed Economist,” John W. Diamond reviews President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act and explains why it won’t increase growth enough to offset its trillions in revenue declines.

On “The Two-Handed Economist,” John W. Diamond explains what makes fiscal sense and what doesn’t on Trump’s trade deals with the UK and China, the GOP’s “one big, beautiful” tax bill, and Trump’s order to slash prescription drug costs.

On “The Two-Handed Economist,” John W. Diamond outlines what Congress should consider as it prepares to extend key provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that expire at the end of 2025.