June 19 Meeting: The Economy and the Election

One of the biggest issues hanging over the election this fall is the state of the U.S. economy. Voters tend to punish incumbents in bad times, but economists say that the economy is doing great, with jobs plentiful, inflation falling, and the stock market strong. 

The trouble is, surveys show that as many as two-thirds of Americans think the economy is in poor shape. Half think unemployment is at a 50-year high. Half think stock prices are falling. A reported 56 percent think the economy is in recession.

The economists' numbers are real, but so is the gloomy public sentiment. What explains the paradox? What to do about it? Our June 19 meeting will address these questions. Bring your answers, and any questions of your own. Meanwhile, here are a couple of readings to get you started.

• Paul Krugman, America is still having a vibesession
• Jeanna Smialek: Why are people so down about the economy?