US economy grew 2% in first quarter 2026 as Iran war began
The Commerce Department reported Thursday that US GDP expanded at a 2% annualized rate from January through March 2026, rebounding from 0.5% growth in the prior quarter. Growth was driven by government spending recovery after a 43-day federal shutdown, consumer spending, business investment, and exports. The Iran war, now in its ninth week, has blocked the Strait of Hormuz and driven energy prices higher, creating uncertainty about the outlook.
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Divergence score
This event sits in the top 20% of divergence this week. 6 outlets covered it, splitting into 5 framing camps across 3 bias groups.
5 camps
3 bias groups
Market signalBETA
The spectrum · how 5 outlets placed this story
LeftCenterRight
CNN
AP News
NY Post
Reuters
NPR
Supportive of action
Neutral
Dismissive
Critical
Alarmist
International angle
The split, in one line
CNN frames the economy as strong hea...
How each outlet covered it
US economy showed solid growth in the first quarter as Iran war began
U.S. economy grew 2% from January-March, recovering from federal shutdown; Iran war clouds outlook
US economy grew 2% despite Iran war — but Americans' spending slowed
US growth picks up in the first quarter
The U.S. economy shows resilience despite the war with Iran
Fact ledger · what actually happened, cross-checked