WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch Trump's MAGA Pick for the Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Aug 13, 2025 President Trump's selection of E.J. Antoni to head the Bureau of Labor Statistics raises eyebrows due to his activist background. The podcast explores concerns about public trust and the potential impact on labor data credibility. A deep dive into recent inflation trends shows a 2.7% increase and its influence on Federal Reserve policies. The nomination process and the nominee's dynamics reveal the partisan challenges ahead, while discussions emphasize the need for trustworthy economic data amidst ongoing controversies.
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Partisan Public Persona
- E.J. Antoni has been a public defender of Trump's policies and appeared on podcasts supporting tariffs and reciprocal trade measures.
- Alicia and Kyle point out his partisan, combative public persona contrasts with the BLS's traditional technocratic role.
Nonpartisan Norms At Risk
- BLS commissioner historically has been a broadly nonpartisan role confirmed with bipartisan support.
- Antoni's activist record risks undermining public trust in the agency's neutrality if confirmed.
Calls To Suspend Jobs Report
- Antoni publicly suggested suspending the monthly jobs report because of perceived data problems.
- The White House framed his nomination as fixing revisions and restoring trust in BLS statistics.