The U.S. economy was even weaker than previously thought in the third quarter, according to a government report that showed growth slowing to near stall speed. Gross domestic product, the broadest measure of the nation's economic health, grew at a 1.8% annual rate in the quarter. That's down from the previous estimate of 2% growth. The report is a concern because any growth less than 2% is considered so weak that it can essentially feel like a recession, leaving consumers and businesses worried about spending and the economy at risk of actually falling into a new downturn should. The weak growth is one reason that the Obama administration and many in Congress say they need to pass an extension of the payroll tax holiday, as well as extended unemployment benefits. However, a political deadlock has blocked the measure from passing despite bipartisan support in concept. Typically growth of 3% is considered enough to prompt hiring by employers that would significantly lower the nation's persistently high unemployment rate. Still, since the end of the summer fears that the U.S. economy could stumble into a new recession have started to retreat, as consumer spending and hiring have showed unexpected strength. Economists surveyed by CNNMoney forecast that growth rebounded to 3.5% in the soon to be completed fourth quarter, although most are looking for another slowdown in the beginning of 2012. The economists have also cut their odds of a new recession in the next six months down to 15%, down from a 25% chance only three months ago.