Author: Paul Davidson, USA TODAY

The Federal Reserve began an aggressive campaign to curb inflation by raising rates just six weeks ago. Now, it’s putting those increases on steroids,

Some economists say Biden’s $1.9T American Rescue Plan was a big contributor to inflation. Others say the stimulus saved the economy.

The economy contracted in the first quarter for first time since 2020. The trade deficit widened and business stockpiling fell.

Critics say businesses use inflation as an excuse for price gouging, or raising prices by far more than required to cover higher costs.

Inflation hit another 40-year high of 8.5% in March, but some economists believe the rise in the consumer price index has peaked. Others disagree.

The inflation rate hit 8.5% annually in March, a new 40-year high, on surging gasoline and food prices. Inflation likely has peaked, economists say.

The South and West regions lead in recovering jobs lost during the pandemic. Though some states may never return to prior levels.

Employers added 431,000 jobs in March as COVID-19 eased, inflation spiked and market volatility continued. The unemployment rate fell to 3.6%.

Most workers who quit jobs during the Great Resignation regret leaving or starting a new position, or don’t plan to stay at their new gig.