President Donald Trump terminated BLS commissioner Erika McEntarfer after disappointing job numbers. He alleged without evidence that McEntarfer manipulated data politically. Experts indicate that altering labor statistics is challenging. Trump's temporary replacement, Bill Wiatrowski, is a long-time BLS employee. Financial analysts warn about potential trust issues in BLS data following the firing, with some expressing deep concerns. However, economists affirm BLS data remains reliable due to extensive checks and established procedures, indicating current trust in the data integrity, contingent on continued adherence to these processes.
The BLS employs more than 2,000 people to produce the monthly jobs reports. It would be difficult to manipulate the data, and whistleblowers would likely come forward if it was tried.
BLS statistics are generated following detailed manuals and procedures that are publicly known and deeply ingrained in the habits and culture of the institution.
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