Federal Data Users

BLS Commissioner Fired: Dr. Erika McEntarfer was removed from her position as Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner after releasing an unfavorable jobs report, sparking widespread concern about statistical independence. 

Legislative Response: Rep. George Whitesides introduced the Statistical Agency Integrity and Independence Act to protect federal statistical agency heads from removal based on data content, conclusions, or timing. 

Census Disruption: Trump has called for a new census, with Florida's AG pushing for a new round of apportionment before the 2026 elections, while professional organizations urge complete funding for the 2030 Census. 

New Leadership: Trump nominated Heritage Foundation economist EJ Antoni as the next BLS Commissioner, signaling potential ideological shifts in statistical leadership. 

New data released: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's "Making Ends Meet” and the National Institute on Aging’s National Dementia Workforce Study (NDWS) Wave 1 survey data are now available. 

Data Access Concerns: RegInfo.gov (which tracks federal data collection requests) went offline and returned with revision notices, reducing public oversight opportunities. 

Data Resource Cancellation: The CDC’s publication warehouse (which allowed you to order printed copies of factsheets, posters, reports, books, and other educational materials on a broad range of topics) closed in mid-August.  

Community Mobilization: Data advocates are organizing rapid-response events to mobilize stakeholders to help protect federal data. Georgetown’s Massive Data Institute is providing resource guides and technical assistance on safeguarding sensitive data for leaders of small community-based organizations and government agencies.