Americans’ view of the economy took a hit following the government shutdown and debt ceiling debate. And, because this winter will see additional budget and debt issues – in addition to the appointment of a new Federal Reserve chair in January – the most recent forecast from Fannie Mae’s economic & Strategic Research Group sees a few more months of suppressed consumer spending and economic growth. Still, the outlook calls for growth to pick up next year, as the labor market improves and the fiscal drag wanes. Doug Duncan, Fannie Mae’s chief economist, said the November economic and housing forecast reflects many of the themes from the previous month, especially the effect of government gridlock on consumer attitudes. Sentiment toward housing also weakened because of the shutdown, despite low single-family mortgage rates and continued year-over-year price gains. More here.