David Wessel

David Wessel, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and director at the Brookings Institution, dives into the tumultuous years of Ben Bernanke's tenure at the Fed. He reflects on the impact of Bernanke's deep understanding of the Great Depression on his decision-making during the 2008 financial crisis. Wessel reveals the complexities of inflation targeting and the personal toll on leaders navigating economic turmoil. He also discusses critical choices, like the failure of Lehman Brothers, and how these decisions shaped public perception of the Federal Reserve.

David Wessel, Director of the Hutchins Center at Brookings, shares his keen insights on the Federal Reserve's future directions. He discusses the upcoming Jackson Hole symposium and what it means for interest rates. Wessel navigates the complexities of potential rate cuts, the implications of the Fed's dot plot, and how political dynamics could influence upcoming appointments. He also examines the challenges of managing inflation, public trust, and the intricate balance between economic signals and Fed communication strategies.

David Wessel, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, unveils the controversial truth behind Opportunity Zones—tax breaks marketed as social justice but seemingly benefiting the wealthy instead. He dives into the political machinations that allowed such provisions to slip through with little scrutiny, revealing the underlying dynamics of power in Washington. Wessel also discusses current issues like infrastructure bills and the landscape of upcoming elections, shedding light on the intricate relationship between wealth, policy, and democracy.