URGENT UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced the nomination of EJ Antoni, a conservative economist from the Heritage Foundation, to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This critical move follows Trump’s recent firing of BLS head Erika McEntarfer, raising significant concerns about the integrity of US government statistics.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, “Our Economy is booming, and E.J. will ensure that the Numbers released are HONEST and ACCURATE. I know E.J. Antoni will do an incredible job in this new role. Congratulations E.J.!” This nomination, made on Monday, June 26, 2023, requires confirmation by the US Senate, which adds an urgent layer to the unfolding situation.
Trump’s decision to dismiss McEntarfer earlier this month was justified by his claims that the latest employment figures were “rigged” to reflect poorly on his administration. This assertion came without evidence, yet it underscores the heightened scrutiny surrounding the BLS’s credibility.
Antoni has previously called for McEntarfer’s removal, positioning himself as a staunch supporter of Trump. He praised the recent trade deal with Japan, labeling it “darn close” to perfect, and referred to Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as “artistic masters.” His close ties to the administration have sparked immediate backlash from several economists, who question his qualifications for the role.
Economist Jason Furman, a former adviser to President Barack Obama, criticized Antoni, stating, “He is an extreme partisan and does not have any relevant expertise. He would be a break from decades of nonpartisan technocrats.” Similarly, Erica Groshen, a former BLS chief under Obama, expressed concern over Antoni’s lack of recognition in business and academic circles, emphasizing the potential risks to the agency’s reputation.
As the situation develops, the implications of this nomination could fundamentally impact how economic data is collected and reported in the United States. The urgency surrounding Antoni’s confirmation process means that the Senate must act quickly, as the credibility of the BLS—and by extension, the integrity of US economic reporting—hangs in the balance.
With the potential for significant political influence over labor statistics, all eyes will be on the upcoming Senate hearings. What happens next could reshape public trust in economic data and the administration’s handling of labor issues.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the Senate prepares to evaluate Antoni’s nomination. The outcome will not only affect economic reporting but also the broader landscape of US governmental transparency.