Trump’s Worst Job Cuts Surge Since COVID-19

Recent data reveals a troubling surge in job losses among Americans under President Donald Trump’s administration. November 2025 witnessed 71,321 announced layoffs, a rate not seen since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. This brought the total job losses for the year to 1.17 million, an alarming increase of 54 percent compared to the same eleven-month period in 2024.

Impact of Job Cuts in Trump’s Administration

The latest statistics, provided by consultancy firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, indicate a noticeable fluctuation in job losses. Although the November figures represent a significant decrease from the October total of 153,074, they still show a 24 percent rise when compared to November 2024, which had 57,727 job losses.

Economic Context and Criticism

These job losses have sparked criticism of Trump’s economic management. Despite his claims of improving the job market and standing up for American workers, many are questioning priorities that appear to favor foreign policy over domestic economic stability.

• Job Loss Figures:
  • November 2025: 71,321 laid off
  • Total in 2025: 1.17 million
  • Increase from 2024: 54%
• Historical Context:
  • Highest job cuts since 2008 occurred in 2022 and 2008.
  • 2025 poised to be the worst year in five years.

Critics have pointed to Trump’s global tariff campaign as a contributing factor to the rising unemployment rate. Reports suggest this policy may be responsible for approximately 8,000 job losses this year alone.

Sector-Specific Job Cuts

Major sectors experiencing job cuts include technology, telecommunications, retail, and services, each contributing between 38,000 and 154,000 layoffs throughout the year. Despite the grim statistics, the administration previously claimed success in boosting domestic employment.

In a recent statement celebrating Labor Day, Trump’s administration highlighted the creation of over 500,000 jobs since he took office. They claimed this simplifies a longer trend of prioritizing American workers, a message that now faces skepticism.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, new hiring plans appear to be declining. Challenger reported a 35 percent drop in planned hires for the year, the lowest total since 2010. In an effort to reassure the public, Trump plans a tour to promote his economic agenda, beginning with an appearance in Pennsylvania.

Despite these challenges, some positive economic indicators have emerged. Initial unemployment claims dropped to their lowest level in three years, falling by 27,000 to reach 191,000 by November 29.

Public sentiment, however, remains cautious. A recent poll revealed that 46 percent of adults and 37 percent of Trump voters feel that the cost of living is at its worst in recent memory, highlighting the ongoing struggle for many Americans.

As the administration navigates these turbulent economic waters, questions surrounding its priorities and effectiveness continue to mount.