Over the course of my first 10 months here at BLS, I have spent much time thinking about the importance of continual improvement in federal statistics. A principal statistical agency must strive for continuous improvement in data collection, statistical methods, and dissemination to ensure success. In recent years, the pandemic and declining survey response rates have been a challenge for statistical agencies everywhere, demanding changes in the way we collect data and increased use of non-survey data sources. I am extremely proud of the innovations BLS has made in response to these challenges—working with Census to develop an internet response mode for the Current Population Survey, increased use of commercial and administrative data in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Import and Export Price Indexes, and improvements in statistical modeling across many programs.  

Allegations President Yoon Suk-yeol would impose martial law to avoid impeachment carry echoes of past political crackdowns.