Economists say job losses likely, even as shutdown delays report

Summary:

– The September jobs report was delayed due to the federal government shutdown .

– Other sources indicate layoffs in Midwest states, oil regions and tech sectors.

– Unemployment and initial claims are rising, signaling labor market strain.

Friday’s jobs report is missing in action because of the federal shutdown, but economists are finding other ways of measuring apparent job losses concentrated in Midwestern states and oil country.

Unemployment could continue to rise, especially for Black people, who have borne the brunt of recent job losses.

Friday’s jobs report for September was missing because of the federal government shutdown. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics staff responsible for collecting, analyzing and releasing the data have been furloughed since We