The latest employment figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics have sparked renewed discussion about the reliability and transparency of US economic reporting. Former BLS commissioner Erica Groshen joined the Financial Times’ US economics correspondent Myles McCormick to analyze the August jobs report, which showed a modest gain of 22,000 positions—far below expectations and signaling potential softening in the labor market. The data raises questions about how upcoming leadership changes at the agency might affect its independence and statistical rigor. With Donald Trump nominating an economist from the Heritage Foundation to lead the BLS, concerns are growing over political influence on nonpartisan economic institutions. The conversation also touched on broader implications for policy decisions based on federal data, especially amid an election year marked by economic uncertainty.
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Can we keep trusting US economic data?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the latest round of jobs numbers this week. A former BLS commissioner, Erica Groshen, and the FT’s US economics correspondent Myles McCormick break down what’s inside that report and what it means for a federal agency preparing for a controversial new leader. n nMentioned in this podcast: n nUS adds just 22,000 jobs in August as labour market sputters n nDonald Trump picks Heritage economist to head US Bureau of Labor Statistics n nEmail Marc with your question (Marc.Filippino@FT.com) n nSign up for the FT’s Swamp Notes newsletter here n nSwamp Notes is produced by Henry Larson. This week’s show was mixed by Alex Higgins. The FT’s acting co head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Special thanks to Pierre Nicholson. n nRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com