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Economics Columnist Robert J. Samuelson Dies at 79

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Robert J. Samuelson, a prominent economics columnist for Newsweek and The Washington Post, died on December 16, 2025, at age 79 from Parkinson’s complications.
He lacked formal economics training, which he believed helped him explain complex issues.
He described himself as an outsider who sought to clarify policy debates for a wider audience.
Colleagues noted his enthusiasm for economic discussions, contrasting with fatigue often felt by others in the field.

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Story summary

Robert J. Samuelson, a prominent economics columnist for Newsweek and The Washington Post, died on December 16, 2025, at age 79 from Parkinson’s complications.
He lacked formal economics training, which he believed helped him explain complex issues.
He described himself as an outsider who sought to clarify policy debates for a wider audience.
Colleagues noted his enthusiasm for economic discussions, contrasting with fatigue often felt by others in the field.