Labor Department Workers Stand Up for Jobs Report Integrity Amid Partisan Tensions

Labor Department Workers Urge Public to Trust Jobs Report Amidst Partisan Tensions In a rare display of collective action, current employees at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) within the U.S. Department of Labor took to the streets on Friday, September 5, 2025, to reassure the American public that their economic data is reliable and unbiased. The move comes as a new jobs report was released, sparking concerns about partisan influence on government statistics. According to eyewitnesses, a group of supporters gathered outside the Labor Department's Washington, D.C. headquarters, where Helen Lurie, a member of the Stop DOL Cuts coalition, read aloud a statement from BLS employees. The statement emphasized that their work is guided by law and statistical practice, not partisan politics. "Our job is to deliver economic data guided by law and statistical practice—not partisan whim," the statement said. "We are committed to providing accurate and reliable information to the public." The rally was organized in response to growing concerns about the politicization of government statistics. The Trump administration's efforts to cut funding for the Labor Department have raised fears among current employees that their work may be compromised. "We're not just numbers; we're people who care deeply about the accuracy and integrity of our data," said a BLS employee, who wished to remain anonymous due to fear of reprisal. "We want to reassure the public that we're committed to doing our job without interference from partisan interests." The statement was met with applause from the crowd, which included supporters from various labor unions and advocacy groups. Background on the issue is complex. The Trump administration has been critical of government statistics, particularly those related to employment and economic growth. In recent months, there have been reports of attempts to manipulate or alter data to fit a particular narrative. However, experts argue that the BLS's independence and commitment to statistical integrity are essential for maintaining public trust in government data. "The Bureau of Labor Statistics is one of the most respected institutions in the country when it comes to economic data," said Dr. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody's Analytics. "Their work is guided by a strict code of conduct that ensures their statistics are accurate and unbiased." The rally marked a rare moment of collective action among BLS employees, who often work behind the scenes to collect and analyze data. "It's not just about us; it's about the public's right to know," said Lurie. "We're proud to be part of an institution that values accuracy and integrity above all else." As the debate over government statistics continues, BLS employees remain committed to their work, despite the challenges they face. "We'll continue to do our job with integrity and transparency, no matter what," said a BLS employee. "That's what we're sworn to do." *Reporting by Npr.*