How Much the Rescue is Costing You, and What a Stimulus Plan Might Look Like

Two terrific stories out there today that are both utilitarian, and will help you understand the debate as to what the government should (or shouldn't) do next in the financial meltdown. First, the New York Times' Louis Uchitelle has a forward looking piece analyzing the effectiveness of a stimulus package and what it must look like. Second, CNNMoney.com's David Goldman breaks down how much money the federal government has doled out thus far.

Here's why you care: The new administration has worked quickly to roll out its proposed members for the financial and security teams. A stimulus package is the next logical step toward recovery. You can bet those who have a say, have their own list of what the government has spent thus far, and their own analysis as to what a stimulus package should look like. Reading these two pieces gives you the tools the decision makers have, and it will allow you to understand the news stories come down the pike.

Read these two and be smart.