Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Why hiring surged in May despite strain from the Iran war

Season 2026 Episode 116 | 6m 43s

There was surprising strength in the latest U.S. jobs report. Employers added 172,000 jobs in May, the third straight month of job gains. Overall, the labor market appears strong despite concerns about the Iran war, rising prices and artificial intelligence. Amna Nawaz speaks with Diane Swonk, chief economist at KPMG, a multinational accounting and advisory firm, for more analysis.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
U.S. air defense supply shrinks during Iran war, leaving experts concerned
India's youth-led 'cockroach' protests expose cracks in Modi's government
July 27, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
Documentary explores why U.S. mothers lack support systems found in other countries
Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on midterm voter enthusiasm
Cyclospora and salmonella outbreaks raise concerns about U.S. food safety
News Wrap: French firefighters battle massive wildfire
3 killed in shooting at crowded festival in Seattle
Senate faces packed, complicated agenda as midterms loom
July 24, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode