Economy
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Biden and McCarthy set to meet again Monday for debt ceiling talks
Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told reporters he had a "productive" phone call with Democratic President Joe Biden as he travels back to Washington. Negotiators for the pair will resume talks Sunday evening.
Oregon’s unemployment rate drops in April, but lags behind nation
The Oregon Employment Department said Wednesday that the jobless rate fell to an even 4% last month, down from 4.4% the previous month.
Northwest startups connect over Silicon Valley Bank concerns
The failure of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank has led to ripple effects across the entire financial system. Angela Jackson, co-managing director of Portland Seed Fund, spoke to OPB Weekend Edition host Lillian Karabaic about how the Portland startup community is responding.

High inflation and housing costs force Americans to delay needed health care
Close to 40% of surveyed Americans, a record high, put off medical care last year because of finances. Americans are delaying or skipping doctor's visits, dental and vision care, and medications.

Oregon’s unemployment rate remained flat in January with the largest job gains in health care
Oregon’s unemployment rate remained at 4.8% in January, according to job numbers released Tuesday by the state’s Employment Department. Oregon’s jobless rate hasn't exceeded that since July 2021 when unemployment was at 5.1%.

Two Portland Walmarts to close, eliminating 580 jobs
The global retailer is closing its Delta Park and Southeast 82nd Avenue Locations, according to a public notice.

Report on Portland economy shows slow rebound post-pandemic
A new report on the region's economy reflects slow job growth and increase in migration out of Multnomah County, especially to Washington's Clark County.

Oregon creates a new inspection program to boost state ag economy, keep meat local
Oregon is starting a new meat inspection process with a view to boosting local slaughterhouse business and allowing local people to eat local beef.

What hitting the debt ceiling might mean for people in the Pacific Northwest
Hitting the national debt limit could force the federal government to stop or limit payments to federally supported programs or even direct payments to citizens.

Biden’s offshore wind plan could create thousands of jobs but challenges remain
When U.S. President Joe Biden talks about tackling climate change, he talks about economic opportunities. Offshore wind promises to provide many opportunities, but it's not for everyone.