In September of this year, U.S. employers were anticipated to generate somewhere between 84,000 to 90,000 new jobs. However, they ultimately fell drastically short, only creating 29,000 new non-farm positions, a sharp slowdown from August. In addition to the current situation, the unemployment rate has risen slightly from 4.1% to 4.2%, as there has been an increase in people dropping out of the labor force. Some are now arguing that Americans are experiencing a frozen job market, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics revised July and August numbers down by a combined 60,000 jobs. Economists have commented on the state of the job market, with one characterizing it as a “low-hire, low-fire” environment. The seasonal hiring surge is down; rather, there are fewer layoffs. The situation is dire for many Americans, as college graduates and those just entering the workforce are struggling more than ever. Something will have to drastically change with the job market soon, as young Americans can not continue without a means of proper employment. 

—Alexandra Miskewitz