Trump Fires Bureau of Labor Stats Head Amid Controversy
President Donald Trump removed Erika McEntarfer, head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, after a disappointing jobs report and alleged political manipulation. McEntarfer was appointed by Joe Biden and replaced by William Wiatrowski as acting director. The July report showed hiring slowed, sending markets lower.
- Country:
- United States
In a dramatic move, President Donald Trump dismissed Erika McEntarfer, head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, after allegations of political manipulation in the recent jobs report. The July report indicated slower hiring than anticipated, with 73,000 jobs added, while May and June figures were revised downward significantly.
Trump announced via social media that McEntarfer, a Biden appointee, was to be replaced immediately by William Wiatrowski. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer confirmed the leadership change, expressing support for Trump's decision, and emphasizing the importance of public trust in the bureau's data.
Despite Trump's accusations of manipulation, he provided no evidence to back his claims. Economists and investors continue to regard US economic data as politically impartial. Nonetheless, the disappointing job figures contributed to a 1.5% decline in US market indexes on Friday.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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