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U.S. Job Losses Surge Amid Government Shutdown Crisis

11/7/2025

29 2 Full Breakdown

Center

Economy Faces Job Losses

In October, the U.S. economy posted job losses, primarily in government and retail.
The Bipartisan Policy Center reported 670,000 federal workers were furloughed because of the government shutdown.
Planned layoffs surged 183% to 153,074, marking the highest October level in 22 years.
The Chicago Federal Reserve estimated unemployment rose to 4.36%.
The shutdown has delayed official employment reports, complicating labor market assessment.

Left

Carly's Job Struggles

Carly Kaprive, a project manager who moved from Kansas City to Chicago, faces a protracted job search amid slowing hiring.
Despite a 4.3% unemployment rate, nationwide hiring has slowed, frustrating Brad Mislow.
Private-sector data show job cuts rose 175% in October.
The October jobs report may be incomplete because of a government shutdown.
Economists attribute the slowdown to tariffs, AI, and higher interest rates.

1 of 2

Economy Faces Job Losses

In October, the U.S. economy posted job losses, primarily in government and retail.
The Bipartisan Policy Center reported 670,000 federal workers were furloughed because of the government shutdown.
Planned layoffs surged 183% to 153,074, marking the highest October level in 22 years.
The Chicago Federal Reserve estimated unemployment rose to 4.36%.
The shutdown has delayed official employment reports, complicating labor market assessment.

1 / 2