In June, the American labor market shattered expectations, adding a remarkable 147,000 jobs and driving the unemployment rate down to an impressive 4.1 percent. This clear victory comes despite doomsayers predicting a downturn due to President Trump’s tariffs. The economy is not just holding steady; it’s thriving.

Skeptics were gearing up for a grim report, forecasting only 110,000 new jobs and an uptick in the unemployment rate to 4.3 percent. Instead, not only did employers exceed expectations, but previous reports also saw upward revisions, adding 16,000 jobs to April and May’s totals.

Wages are climbing, too. In June, average hourly earnings increased by 0.2 percent and have surged 3.7 percent over the past year, well above inflation rates. Our workers are getting paid more for their hard work, a testament to the growing strength of the economy.

The private sector alone contributed 74,000 new positions, while the public sector added 73,000 jobs—though it’s worth noting the federal government’s payroll shrank by 7,000. This data signals a robust private sector dynamic and a necessary course correction in federal employment.

In sector breakdowns, construction gained 15,000 jobs, while manufacturing faced a slight decline of 7,000. The services sector led the charge with a remarkable 68,000 new jobs, driven by substantial gains in healthcare and social assistance, which accounted for 58,600 of those positions. Furthermore, leisure and hospitality added 20,000 jobs, enhancing our economy’s diverse base.

These figures paint a clear picture: the American economy is on the right track, defying naysayers and proving that sound economic policies prosper. Let’s continue to champion the principles that drive this growth, ensuring our labor market remains strong and our workers thrive.