Kevin Hall and Tony Pugh
khall@mcclatchydc.com

Many indicators point to a fragile economy. Worker pay shrinks in the face of rising inflation and high energy prices. Faced with an uncertain labor market, the consumer is getting defensive. The Federal Reserve has slashed interest rates and the Bush administration and Congress are seeking an economic stimulus plan with tax rebates for consumers and tax relief for business. Both moves seek to jolt the sluggish economy back to life. But these actions will take time to work, and meanwhile home prices keep falling and Wall Street remains a volatile place.

McClatchy correspondents Kevin G. Hall and Tony Pugh are available to answer your questions about the shaky economy at home and abroad, and what's in store for ordinary Americans in the face of gathering economic storm clouds.