The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has faced criticism for revising its jobs report following President Trump’s firing. The agency’s most recent report revised down employment numbers for May and June by 258,000 jobs, drawing accusations of political manipulation. However, most economists argue that BLS revises its numbers to account for more information from its nationwide surveys. Supporters of the BLS argue that measures could be taken to modernize the collection of its survey data, particularly for its population survey, one of two surveys used to compile the jobs report. A group of former BLS heads has asked Congress to fund the agency with at least $770 million for the upcoming fiscal year. The agency’s initial job estimates have gradually become more accurate over over 60 years of data collection. Advocates argue that while Trump’s claims of political bias are baseless, the agency could use extra funding to modernize, particularly on its Current Population Survey, which polls households instead of businesses on employment.
The federal jobs report undergoes revision due to changes in the job market and economic conditions. Huong DN 589
