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Economics Columnist Robert J. Samuelson Dies at 79

12/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Robert J. Samuelson, a prominent economics columnist for Newsweek and The Washington Post, died at 79 in Bethesda, Maryland, from complications of Parkinson's disease.
He explained inflation and the national debt in an accessible style.
He did so without formal economics training.
Colleagues noted his outsider perspective and enthusiasm for policy discussions.
His approach and passion made him a respected figure in Washington journalism.

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Story summary

Robert J. Samuelson, a prominent economics columnist for Newsweek and The Washington Post, died at 79 in Bethesda, Maryland, from complications of Parkinson's disease.
He explained inflation and the national debt in an accessible style.
He did so without formal economics training.
Colleagues noted his outsider perspective and enthusiasm for policy discussions.
His approach and passion made him a respected figure in Washington journalism.