U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) jumped in the first quarter of 2026, compared to the previous quarter’s growth, the Commerce Department reported Thursday – a sign that the nation’s economy remains solid. Real (inflation-adjusted) GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.0% in the first quarter after rising just 0.5% in the last three months of 2025, according to the report providing an advanced estimate of GDP. A second, updated estimate will be published May 28, to eventually be followed by the third (and final) estimate. "The core of the economy remained solid in Q1, driven by the AI buildout...