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... The sales slowdown reported by the Commerce Department on Tuesday followed a long stretch of gains and marked a weak handoff to the fourth quarter.

Economists said a sluggish labor market, characterized by an unemployment rate at a four-year high, was making consumers more selective about purchases.

That development was reinforced by a survey from the Conference Board showing consumer confidence sagged to a seven-month low in November, with fewer households planning to buy motor vehicles, houses and other big-ticket items over the next six months.

There was also a decline in those who said they were making vacation plans. Economists say President Donald Trump's sweeping duties on imports have raised prices for everyday commodities, including food. ...