The September jobs report, delayed due to the government shutdown, revealed a slowing labor market. Revisions to prior months showed that employment in July and August were overstated, with August’s job gains even turning into a loss. The report also indicated a decline in federal employment since January. Despite these economic indicators, a fresh survey shows that a majority of voters have a negative view of the economy.
The US labor market is experiencing a significant downturn, as evidenced by a recent report from Challenger, Gray & Christmas. October saw 153,000 job cuts announced, the highest number since 2003, bringing the total for 2025 to 1.1 million, a level reminiscent of past economic crises. The tech sector is particularly affected, with AI adoption and economic factors contributing to the layoffs. These mass layoffs have sparked concern among Democratic lawmakers who point to the policies of former President Donald Trump as contributing factors to the current economic situation.
October saw a significant surge in U.S. layoff announcements, with over 153,000 job cuts reported, a 175% increase year-over-year. This marks the highest October increase since 2003, driven by factors like AI adoption, softening spending, and rising costs. While major companies are citing AI as a reason for job cuts, the absence of official economic data due to the government shutdown complicates the assessment of the labor market’s health. Policymakers and investors are relying on alternative data, but the lack of government figures could hinder crucial economic decision-making and potentially impact future interest rate adjustments.
The September ADP report revealed a concerning downturn in the US private sector, with a loss of 32,000 jobs and a significant downward revision of August’s figures. This decline, driven primarily by small businesses and widespread across various industries, contrasts sharply with economists’ expectations. The revision was, in part, due to a preliminary benchmarking of data, which adjusted the picture of hiring trends. These findings, coupled with other indicators like the BLS report, point toward a slowing labor market, heightening concerns amidst government uncertainties.
US consumer inflation accelerates; weekly jobless claims approach four-year high, and it’s definitely a situation that’s got people talking, and not in a good way. It seems like things are heading in a direction that many predicted, and the consequences are starting to hit home. The rise in inflation, as reported by the Labor Department, is the biggest jump we’ve seen in a while, and that’s directly translating into higher prices for everyday essentials.
The other side of this coin is the news about weekly jobless claims. They’re nearing a four-year high, which means more people are finding themselves out of work.… Continue reading
The August jobs report revealed the weakest labor-market gain in five years, with the unemployment rate rising and long-term unemployment reaching its highest level in nearly a decade. A particularly concerning trend is the rise in Black unemployment, which has disproportionately impacted Black Americans, with unemployment reaching its worst levels since 2021. This downturn is linked to government firings, DEI rollbacks, and specific sector declines, especially in trade, transportation, and manufacturing. Historically, the economic struggles of Black workers often foreshadow broader economic issues, making the current situation a cause for alarm and potential further negative impacts on the economy.
Donald Trump’s economy falters as US jobs growth grinds to a halt. The situation is becoming increasingly clear: the economic landscape under Donald Trump is shifting, and the job market, a key indicator of economic health, is struggling. The narrative of a robust economy, often touted, now faces the stark reality of slowing job growth.
The data suggests the labor market is a lagging indicator, reflecting the strain felt by those seeking work. Personal anecdotes highlight the difficulties in finding employment, suggesting that the positive economic figures previously reported don’t paint the full picture. The manufacturing sector, in particular, continues to shed jobs, seemingly unaffected by protectionist measures such as tariffs, which, as some point out, don’t offer the promised benefits.… Continue reading
The August jobs report revealed a significant economic downturn, with only 22,000 jobs added and the unemployment rate rising to 4.3%, the highest since 2021. These figures, released after President Trump fired the Bureau of Statistics Commissioner, further indicated that the jobs market is struggling. While Trump’s administration continues to push a narrative of economic prosperity, the numbers undercut those claims and could prompt the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. The report has also caused the number of Americans who have been out of work for more than six months to reach 1.9 million.
Nevada’s economy is facing growing concerns due to a decline in tourism, impacting businesses and reaching beyond the hospitality sector. Las Vegas Souvenirs and Gifts, for example, has experienced a significant drop in sales due to decreased foot traffic and fewer international visitors, including a notable absence of Canadian tourists. The tourism sector plays a vital role in Nevada, generating billions in revenue and supporting a substantial portion of jobs and tax dollars. Experts suggest that this decline has prompted lawmakers to hesitate on tax increases, potentially leading to program cuts, and raising questions about whether the downturn is cyclical or a new reality.
US manufacturing extends slump; factory employment lowest in 5 years – and frankly, it’s got people asking some tough questions. The recent reports are pretty grim, and it’s hard to ignore the trend. The numbers paint a clear picture of a sector that’s struggling, with employment figures hitting a five-year low. It’s a stark reminder that things aren’t exactly “booming” for American factories.
Now, it’s easy to get lost in the headlines, but let’s break this down. A lot of folks are talking about tariffs, and how they’ve made imported raw materials more expensive. That’s a direct hit to manufacturing costs.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood