Can we believe the job numbers?

[unitedwethrive]

My instincts are telling me not to believe anything that comes out of this administration, but I was hoping to get input from those who know more.
I remember the new job numbers (especially during the pandemic) seeming odd, but how much direct influence does the executive branch have over this statistic?

[elleng]

1. Don't know, HOPING dept of Labor has true numbers (with it's usual 'correction.')

[Peregrine Took]

2. My thoughts exactly.

He knew he’d need some good news today to offset his debacle.

[Wiz Imp]

3. I'm pretty sure the numbers are still legit.

While the top-line job increase looks OK, if you delve into the details, the totality of the report is not that great. That said, because the top line number is pretty good, there is probably no urgency to interfere yet.

The executive branch, meaning the President, has never had any influence over this data. The numbers are calculated based on the responses to surveys. The numbers are automatically generated and then a group of statisticians/economists reviews the numbers to verify everything looks kosher. Once the numbers are finalized, then only a handful of people are allowed to see the numbers until the official release at 8:30 AM on the "First Friday" of each month. The President does not see the numbers until the public at large does.

I worked on this program at a state level for about 35 years. I can verify the the published numbers have been honest and free from intervention or manipulation for the entire history of the program (which has been going on for over 80 years).

That said, there is a definite legitimate fear that Trump may try to interfere with these data at some point. However, there is no evidence that the numbers have been interfered with yet (but then this is just the 3rd monthly release of data from this administration, and just the 2nd effectively referencing activity during the Trump administration. The January report released in February reference the period of January prior to the inauguration.) Note: the massive layoffs of federal workers have not yet been reflected in the numbers.

[Nimble_Idea]

4. you saying what?

trust in tesler!!