Trump’s BLS Pick E.J. Antoni Is — Shocker — a Crackpot Hack
President Trump nominated E.J. Antoni to head the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This nomination has faced widespread criticism from economists across the political spectrum. Notably, conservative economists have expressed significant disapproval, which is considered unusual given Antoni's conservative background. Critics like Stan Veuger from the American Enterprise Institute point to elementary errors and partisan bias in Antoni's work at the Heritage Foundation. Dave Hebert of the American Institute for Economic Research highlighted Antoni's lack of understanding of basic economics and his rapid embrace of MAGA ideology. Jessica Riedl from the Manhattan Institute cited Antoni's apparent lack of knowledge regarding tariff impacts on import prices, calling his published work highly error-filled. These conservative economists are objecting to Antoni's nomination, suggesting he is unqualified for the role at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The criticism suggests a disconnect between MAGA politics and legitimate economic principles. The consensus among these economists is that Antoni's qualifications do not meet the standards for such a position. Their objections are based on his past academic and public statements.