More or Less: Behind the Stats Why it matters that Trump fired data chief
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Aug 9, 2025 
Michael Strain, an economist at the American Enterprise Institute and a Georgetown professor, dives into the fallout from President Trump's firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics chief. He discusses the significant job report revisions that triggered this political upheaval, questioning how such actions impact public trust in vital economic data. Strain emphasizes the risks posed to the U.S. economy by undermining statistical integrity, highlighting the critical need for reliability in economic reporting amid political pressures.
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Firing The BLS Head Shakes Trust
- President Trump fired Erica McIntarfer after poor revisions to jobs data, undermining the bureau's independence.
- The removal raises questions about political interference in routine statistical work.
Historic Dangers Of Silencing Statisticians
- Lizzy McNeill notes governments have harmed statisticians who produced unwanted numbers, showing real historical risk.
- She warns that firing or threatening statisticians can echo dangerous precedents abroad.
Revisions Are Normal And Expected
- Data revisions to BLS job numbers are routine because surveys arrive late and estimates are updated.
- Revisions occur every month and reflect improved data, not intentional manipulation.