May Jobs Report Better Than Expected

The U.S. economy added a record 2.5 million jobs in May, after losing more than 22 million jobs between March and April, while the national unemployment rate dropped from 14.7% in April to 13.3%. Experts widely projected the economy to lose roughly eight million more jobs in May, and for the unemployment rate to approach 20%. Media on all sides framed the report as surprisingly positive, with coverage from right-rated outlets generally crediting relaxed lockdowns for the encouraging numbers and praising a seemingly faster-than-expected economic rebound. Many reports, especially from left-rated outlets, also focused on the fact that 13.3% is still a very high unemployment rate.