71.   But many economists say there is little doubt that the recession is either over or in its last stages, a view the administration endorsed Thursday.

72.   But not everyone thinks a recession is imminent.

73.   But recessions are notoriously hard to stem once they begin.

74.   But the severe declines came when serious recessions were under way.

75.   But there are important policy tools available and good reasons to believe that a recession is avoidable.

76.   By itself, a recession would not be a surprise.

77.   Clearly, there are recessions and there are recessions.

78.   Clarke said the government had mistakenly cut taxes in the past before the recession was over and had been forced to raise them again.

79.   Contrast that to a growing, but influential minority of private-sector economists who fear a recession either is underway or will arrive in coming months.

80.   Cripps said he is not sure if there will be a recession.