White House: October Jobs and Inflation Data May Be Lost Forever Amid Shutdown

The U.S. government shutdown has reached a critical juncture, with the White House cautioning that pivotal economic reports—including October’s jobs data and inflation figures—could be permanently withheld if the budget stalemate continues. This unprecedented threat leaves the Federal Reserve, investors, and businesses without vital insights as economic uncertainty grows.

Why Could October’s Economic Data Disappear?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which compiles employment and inflation data, has been crippled by the shutdown. Though some essential staff remain, furloughs have disrupted data collection and analysis.

A senior White House official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that if the shutdown persists, the October reports—originally due in early November—might never be released. “The window for accurate data collection is closing,” the official said. “Without swift action, these figures could be lost for good.”

3 Major Risks If the Data Vanishes

1. Federal Reserve Flying Blind

The Fed depends on jobs and inflation metrics to set interest rates. Missing data could force guesswork, heightening market instability.

2. Wall Street Left in the Dark

Investors rely on BLS reports to gauge economic health. Gaps may trigger erratic trading as firms resort to unreliable proxies.

3. Political Battle Escalates

With the 2024 elections approaching, blame over the shutdown—and lost data—could deepen partisan clashes on fiscal policy.

Has This Happened Before?

Past shutdowns (2013, 2018-19) delayed reports but didn’t erase them. This time, officials warn prolonged furloughs could make October’s data irretrievable—a historic first.

What Happens Next?

• Economists Seek Alternatives: Private-sector surveys (e.g., ADP) may help but lack government rigor.
• White House Pushes for Stopgap Bill: House Republicans remain split on spending cuts, prolonging the deadlock.

The Bottom Line

The shutdown’s economic toll is mounting. If October’s data vanishes, the U.S. could enter 2024 without a clear economic compass—jeopardizing markets, businesses, and households.

The countdown to a resolution—or irreversible damage—is on.

— Reporting by NextMinuteNews