Job growth skyrocketed in December, boosting one of the strongest labor markets in US history
CNNJAN 18
US Jobs Report Exceeds Expectations, Unemployment Hits 4.1%
Above: A job and resource fair in Hendersonville, North Carolina on Nov. 19, 2024. Image copyright: Allison Joyce/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Spin
Democratic narrative
The robust job market demonstrates remarkable economic resilience by the US. Steady wage growth and broad-based hiring across sectors suggest a soft landing is achievable without a recession. The only uncertainty now stems from policy changes coming from the Trump administration.
Republican narrative
This report isn't a reason for the Biden administration to declare victory. The Federal Reserve is still closely watching inflation, which has ticked up. And although unemployment remains low, several major companies have announced layoffs and overall hiring has slowed significantly. More data will be forthcoming to see just how well the economy is doing.