Bureau of Labor Statistics Appointment Withdrawn

WASHINGTON – The White House retracted the appointment of conservative economist Eji Antoni as the next commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics late Tuesday. This move comes amid the ongoing discussions about potential government shutdowns.

A White House representative praised Antoni, stating, “Dr. Eji Antoni is a great economist and an American patriot and will continue to do good work on behalf of our great nation.”

It was noted that President Trump aims to address previous shortcomings at the BLS that have affected trust in crucial economic data. A new candidate will be announced soon, according to the statement.

Trump had nominated Antoni on August 11, shortly after he dismissed former BLS commissioner Erica Mantelfer. This happened in the wake of a lackluster employment report that required significant revisions to earlier data released by the bureau.

Antoni, who serves as the Chief Economist at the Heritage Foundation, was anticipated to encounter a challenging confirmation process in the Senate. Critics pointed out his lack of experience in both public office and in labor data compilation.

The situation became more complicated in September, as reports surfaced about Antoni’s previously deleted social media accounts where he reportedly made derogatory comments about political opponents.

The BLS had revised its payroll growth figures for June and May, significantly altering previous assessments from 1968 onward.

During this revision, Trump raised concerns, suggesting the data was biased and manipulated for political gain. He stated, “We have been informed that our country’s ’employment numbers’ are being produced by Biden’s appointee, Labor Statistics Commissioner, Dr. Erica Mantelfer. She falsified work numbers before the election and tried to increase the chances of Kamala winning.”

Mantelfer herself described her termination as an assault on the independence of important institutions like the Federal Reserve, which play a crucial role in economic stability.

The date for Antoni’s confirmation hearing by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee was not publicly announced.

Following the withdrawal of Antoni’s appointment, Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts expressed his support, calling Antoni “one of the most keen economic minds in the country.” He affirmed, “EJ’s immeasurable capabilities and insightful economic analysis have remained unchanged, and I am extremely proud to have him on the team.”