Twp years of Democrats' screaming "The worst economy in history" eroded consumer confidence and caused business to become scared and clam up. They did this to win the election, and it worked.
Prediction-
Beginning January 21, 2009 most lamestream media reports describing the US economy will be positive. You will see consumer confidence rebound, spending will increase, unemployment will stabilize and fall, and a self-fulfilling prophesy will ensue. So much of this current crisis was “manufactured” in the media that since the fix has always been in , it will continue in so much that a recovery will also be manufactured. Short term of course.
Remember-sell in May (2009) and go away. JMHO
Major Bingo!