Peter B. Teeley, Who Coined the Term Voodoo Economics,' Dies at 84
Briefly

Peter B. Teeley, the sharp-witted press secretary for George H.W. Bush, coined the term 'voodoo economics' to criticize Ronald Reagan's tax plans during the 1980 campaign.
In formulating a counter to Reagan's promises of tax cuts, Teeley drew inspiration from a humorous notion that Carter's policies were created by 'witch doctors', leading him to liken Reagan's economic proposals to 'voodoo'.
The phrase 'voodoo economics' was integrated into Bush's speech, sparking a significant response from conservatives and ultimately becoming a lasting reference in political discourse.
Though Teeley intended it as a clever retort, the term 'voodoo economics' gained traction, likely exceeding Teeley’s expectations, becoming a staple in the critique of supply-side policies.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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