Trump nominates government economist to lead Bureau of Labor Statistics after firing a prior commissioner
President Trump has announced his nomination of government economist Brett Matsumoto to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a move that comes after previous accusations of the agency releasing low monthly job numbers to undermine him. While there is no concrete evidence to support these claims, a series of revisions to past reports this summer did show a weakening job market after Trump’s return to the White House.
The president’s decision to dismiss the agency’s previous Senate-confirmed commissioner, Erika McEntarfer, in August was based on allegations of “faked jobs numbers.” Following her termination, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has been under the temporary leadership of a career government economist. The release of a report in July, which revealed a mere 70,000 job additions and significant downward revisions to May and June estimates, played a crucial role in McEntarfer’s firing. While such revisions are not uncommon as more survey responses are received, the magnitude of these adjustments was noteworthy.
Apart from the monthly job reports, the Bureau of Labor Statistics also publishes a range of economic data, including the consumer price index tracking inflation. Trump took to social media on Friday night to reiterate his belief that the agency was in disarray under the leadership of “weak and stupid people.” However, he expressed confidence in Brett Matsumoto’s ability to swiftly address any existing issues within the organization. Matsumoto, who holds a doctorate from the University of North Carolina, has previously served as a supervisory research economist at BLS and as a senior economist for the White House Council of Economic Advisers.
Describing Matsumoto as a “brilliant, reputable, and trusted economist,” Trump shared his endorsement on Truth Social. Initially, the president had selected E.J. Antoni, the chief economist at the Heritage Foundation, for the BLS leadership role. However, the nomination was withdrawn in September amidst criticisms regarding Antoni’s qualifications.
As the administration transitions leadership at the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the focus remains on ensuring the accuracy and integrity of economic data and reports released by the agency. Matsumoto’s appointment is poised to bring stability and excellence back to the organization, as the government economist takes on the responsibility of leading one of the most crucial entities in monitoring and analyzing the nation’s labor market and economic trends.
