Robert Samuelson, Award‑Winning Economics Columnist, Dies at 79

Legacy of a Trusted Voice on Economic Policy

Renowned journalist Robert Samuelson passed away at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of clear‑cut analysis that helped generations of readers navigate the complexities of the U.S. economy. For more than four decades, his byline appeared regularly in Newsweek and The Washington Post, where he translated dense fiscal debates into language that anyone could understand.

Career Highlights

Samuelson began his career in the early 1970s, covering everything from inflationary spikes to the rise of globalization. His columns earned him multiple awards, including the prestigious Gerald Loeb Award for Distinguished Business and Financial Journalism. He was celebrated for:

• Breaking down the impact of tax reforms on middle‑class families.
• Providing insightful commentary on the 2008 financial crisis and its aftermath.
• Predicting trends in technology‑driven economic shifts.

Impact on Readers and Peers

Colleagues remember Samuelson as a mentor who insisted on rigorous fact‑checking and a compassionate tone. “He had a rare gift for making the abstract feel personal,” said a longtime editor at The Washington Post. Readers often praised his columns for offering practical advice during uncertain economic times.

Personal Life

Beyond the newsroom, Samuelson was an avid traveler and a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed sailing on the Chesapeake Bay and was a regular volunteer at local literacy programs.

Final Tribute

Samuelson’s death marks the end of an era for economic journalism, but his work continues to serve as a benchmark for clarity and integrity in reporting. His articles remain a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the forces shaping today’s economy.