From This Collection

Government employee: "I'm relieved to be back"

Oct 17, 2013
A hydrologist at the U.S Geological Survey says the backup of work is not good, but he's glad to be back.

S&P: Shutdown and debt battle cost U.S. economy $24 billion

Oct 17, 2013
The aftermath of the debt ceiling debacle: consumer confidence is shaken, companies aren't spending, interest rates will rise, the nation's credit rating is in jeopardy, and GDP growth takes a hit.

Good enough for government data

Oct 17, 2013
We lost two weeks of government data -- data that let economists know what to study and data that helps farmers know what to plant.

Trust issues: D.C. dysfunction means uncertainty for companies

Oct 17, 2013
There’s a better than average chance that the government could shut down again in a few months if Congress can’t come to an agreement. That uncertainty is a problem for everyone from contractors to the entire US economy.

If 'creditworthiness is like virginity,' did the U.S. just lose it?

Oct 17, 2013
America's creditworthiness takes a hit in Asia, even with the debt ceiling raised and the government reopening.

Ok, debt ceiling is dealt with: What do I need to know now?

Oct 16, 2013
Congress reached a deal -- and a process -- to avoid a default on U.S. debt and the reopening of the government.

Government reopens, then what? Spoiler alert: long lines

Oct 16, 2013
From fishermen needing permits to farmers applying for compensation for deceased cattle, people and businesses needing help from the government will form a long line around the block.
Cattle eat a ration of feed on a farm August 3, 2012 near Cuba, Ill.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

What does all of this talk about default really mean?

Oct 16, 2013
Make no mistake, if the U.S. government defaults on its debt obligations, it will be a catastrophe. But the media has been misusing the term.
Reporters stand outside the Speaker of the House's office on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, October 15, 2013, waiting for comments from the Republican leadership.
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images

Global economy cheers Senate deal on debt

Oct 16, 2013
The deadline to raise the debt ceiling is less than 24 hours away, but the U.S. won't actually default until the end of the month.

Debt talks in disarray

Oct 15, 2013
How a deal that delays the debt ceiling fight until Jan. 15 sets up a new fight on the sequester.