Mar 12, 2009

Economists: Obama and Geithner get failing grades

Participants in the latest Wall Street Journal forecasting survey gave Barack Obama and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner failing grades for their efforts to revive the economy.

The economists' assessment stands in stark contrast with Mr. Obama's popularity with the public, with a recent Wall Street Journal/NBC poll giving him a 60% approval rating.

A majority of the 49 economists polled said they were dissatisfied with the administration's economic policies.

On average, they gave the president a grade of 59 out of 100, and although there was a broad range of marks, 42% of respondents rated Mr. Obama below 60.

Mr. Geithner received an average grade of 51.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke scored better, with an average 71.

More here.