President Barack Obama faces a long economic "to-do" list in his first term. The first 100 days must focus on stabilizing the economy by fixing the financial sector and passing a well-crafted stimulus bill. These policies will set the tone for the longer-term reforms required to address budget deficits, regulatory reform, and waning U. (0) comments
The Federal Reserve chairman's view that the US government may have to infuse additional funds into banks and separate "bad" assets from banks is correct. Banks are not in a position to lend to all creditworthy borrowers, as they remain under-capitalized given the additional trillion dollars plus of estimated losses the financial system is yet to recognize (according to Goldman Sachs). (0) comments
The Obama administration faces a daunting task in steering a faltering economy back on track, but it's important to not lose sight of the substantial power that his administration simply does not have. The important issue will be in determining in what areas Obama is able to make an impact and what areas are less promising. (0) comments
The Inauguration of Barack Obama drew crowds nearly three times the US Census Bureau reported population for Washington D.C. of 581,530. According to the Washington Post, 1.8 million people gathered on the Mall and lined Pennsylvania Avenue for the historic swearing in of the 44th president. (4) comments
From his announcement joining the Democratic primaries in February, 2007, to his inauguration on January 20, 2009, Barack Obama has incited an unparalled following among young voters. This is the story of one student's involvement in his campaign up to, and including, his inauguration. (5) comments
It has been over a week since Tuesday, January 20, 2009. I am sure you have read the articles and looked at the pictures and listened to the recaps. Most of you were probably watching live when Almost-President Obama became President Obama in front of two million spectators on the National Mall and many millions more watching on television and the internet in the United States and around the world. (1) comment
Harbus (in our fantasy world) recently sat down with President Barack Obama to discuss his outlook on the presidency and the state of the country. Harbus: President Obama, thank you for agreeing to join us for a discussion. Obama: Not a problem, it is my pleasure. (0) comments
As a Social Enterprise Summer Fellow serving for the Joint Economic Committee in Washington, DC. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) had asked us to investigate the rising costs of prescription drugs treating rare diseases, and we uncovered the marvelous story of Trevor and his mother. (1) comment
"The Marketing of the President." Sounds like the theme from an earlier edition of the Harbus. After all, barring death, resignation, or impeachment, Obama will remain in power until at least January 2013. However, marketing remains critical to his Presidency; Obama's popularity and accomplishments will depend on how he reshapes his campaign's message going forward. (1) comment
Cost of Living Compared to other cities of its size and stature, Atlanta is cheap. For example: Two roommates and I shared a 2,000sq-ft multi-level loft for just $1,400 a month (that's $0.70/sq-ft compared to the $3.75/sq-ft I pay for a One Western Avenue apartment) History/Culture Much of Atlanta's history is tied to the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. (0) comments
An immense level of pride emanates from our friends and colleagues from The Lone Star State. However, from the ski slopes of Colorado, to the train stations of Europe, the reputation of Texas is that we're a bunch of brash, boastful polluters. The fact is, Texas' vast land acreage, rich natural resources and business friendly government have made it an economic juggernaut producing outsized wealth in the last fifty years. (0) comments
Although you may not know it, you're likely sitting under a roof paid for by a Charlotte area native, C.D. Spangler (HBS 1956). His National Gypsum Company thrives in the North Carolina city that is now home to eight Fortune 500 companies and countless smaller businesses. (0) comments