Controversy Clouds Labor Statistics Nominee

Brett Matsumoto, nominated by Donald Trump to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics, declined to comment on Trump's claim of fake employment data by the previous commissioner. Matsumoto assured a Senate committee of his commitment to accuracy and legality if confirmed for the role.

Brett Matsumoto, an economist chosen by former President Donald Trump to become the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) commissioner, has refrained from addressing the substance of Trump's allegations that the previous head of the agency falsified U.S. employment data.

Appearing before a Senate committee for his nomination review, Matsumoto stated that the president's comments 'speak for themselves.' He reassured senators that, if confirmed, he would adhere to legal requirements and ensure accurate data publication by the bureau's career staff.

Trump had dismissed Erika McEntarfer, the former BLS commissioner, last August after an employment report was released containing substantial revisions to earlier job creation figures.