Government shutdown delays key monthly jobs report at a pivotal moment for the U.S. economy
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US Government Shutdown Delays September Jobs Report
Above: A "Now Hiring" sign is posted outside of a business in Miami on Oct. 3, 2025. Image copyright: Joe Raedle/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Government shutdowns do hurt the U.S. workforce — and the Chuck Schumer shutdown is no exception. Until funding is resumed, federal agencies cannot collect or report key economic data, including the jobs report. Democrats have shown that they don't care at all about working families, and are willing to harm the country to try to push their absurd policies.
Democratic narrative
It's very convenient for the Trump administration to use the government shutdown as an excuse to dodge another round of bad headlines confirming that the economy and job market under Donald Trump are a complete disaster. Whether the job report is published on time or delayed, Americans know that Trump is to blame for this economic chaos.
Cynical narrative
As Democrats and Republicans trade blame for the ongoing crisis, they ignore the hard truth: this dysfunction is the product of their shared failure, rooted in years of partisan posturing and political brinkmanship. Budgetary standoffs have become the norm, eroding vital institutions, shaking public confidence and putting petty politics above the needs of everyday Americans. This cycle of mismanagement must end — now.