Key Facts
• August 2, 2025: New York Times reports dismissal of Bureau Chief Mackentaffer.
• August 1, 2025: Trump orders dismissal, citing dissatisfaction with revised employment data.
• July employment data: Non-farm payrolls increased by 73,000, below 110,000 market expectations.
• May and June employment figures revised down by 258,000, revealing labor market slowdown.
• Labor Secretary Chavez Delimar supports Trump’s decision to replace Biden-appointed Mackentaffer.
• Mackentaffer was appointed by former President Biden in January 2024.
Summary
The New York Times reported on August 2, 2025, that U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Chief Mackentaffer was dismissed following orders from former President Donald Trump. Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the July employment report, which showed a significant downward revision of past employment figures. The report revealed a 73,000 increase in non-farm payrolls, falling short of the 110,000 market forecast, and highlighted a labor market slowdown with May and June figures revised down by 258,000. Labor Secretary Chavez Delimar publicly supported Trump’s decision, emphasizing the need for reliable data. Mackentaffer, appointed by former President Biden in January 2024, was replaced by the deputy chief. The dismissal underscores tensions over economic data and its political implications.
