Trump nominates E.J. Antoni to head the Bureau of Labor Statistics

President Trump has nominated an economist with a background at two conservative think tanks to head the Bureau of Labor Statistics. E.J. Antoni, a known critic of the agency and its data collection methods, appeared on a podcast hosted by Trump ally Steve Bannon on August 1, aligning with the release of the July employment data. During the discussion about the disappointing report, Antoni criticized Erika McEntarfer, the BLS commissioner at the time, calling her "incompetent." Bannon suggested that Trump should appoint a MAGA Republican to the role instead. Later that day, the president dismissed McEntarfer. Antoni's nomination requires Senate confirmation.